Round Lumps in the Breast: What You Need to Know

A round hard lump in the chest?

I usually have a habit of performing self-breast examinations.
About a month ago, I suddenly noticed a round lump next to my right breast.
It moves slightly when pressed and is somewhat painful.
I previously had a sebaceous cyst on my left breast, and I'm unsure what this situation with my right breast might be.

Yangyang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/05

Dr. Wu Jianting reply Breast and Thyroid

If you feel a hard lump in your breast, please visit a breast clinic for an examination.
The details cannot be determined from the text alone.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/09/05

More Info

When it comes to discovering round lumps in the breast, it is essential to approach the situation with a combination of awareness, understanding, and prompt medical evaluation. The presence of a lump, especially one that is new, can understandably cause concern. Here’s what you need to know about breast lumps, their potential implications, and the steps you should take.

Understanding Breast Lumps
Breast lumps can arise from various causes, and they are not all indicative of cancer. The characteristics of the lump, such as its size, shape, texture, and whether it is painful or movable, can provide important clues about its nature.
1. Common Types of Breast Lumps:
- Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can feel like smooth, round lumps. They can be tender and may fluctuate in size with your menstrual cycle.

- Fibroadenomas: These are solid, benign tumors that are often round and movable. They are more common in younger women and can be painless.

- Lipomas: These are benign fatty tumors that can also feel soft and movable.

- Intraductal Papillomas: These are small growths in the ducts of the breast that can cause discharge and may feel like a lump.

- Malignant Tumors: While less common, breast cancer can present as a lump. Characteristics may include a hard texture, irregular shape, and immobility.

Symptoms and Self-Examination
You mentioned that the lump is slightly painful and movable. Pain is often associated with benign conditions, but it is not a definitive indicator. Self-examination is a valuable tool for monitoring breast health. When performing a self-exam, look for:
- Changes in size or shape of the breast.

- Any new lumps or masses.

- Changes in the skin or nipple, such as dimpling or discharge.

Next Steps
Given your history of a previous lump (a sebaceous cyst) and the recent discovery of a new lump, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
1. Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination of the breast and may ask about your medical history, including any family history of breast cancer.

2. Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as a mammogram or ultrasound. These tests can help differentiate between solid and cystic masses and assess their characteristics.

3. Biopsy: If there is any concern regarding the nature of the lump, a biopsy may be performed to obtain tissue for pathological examination. This is the definitive way to determine whether a lump is benign or malignant.

Importance of Follow-Up
It is essential to follow up on any new breast lump, especially if it is persistent or changing. Early detection and diagnosis are key factors in the successful treatment of breast conditions, including breast cancer.

Conclusion
In summary, while many breast lumps are benign, it is vital to take any new changes seriously. Given your previous experience with a lump and the current situation, I encourage you to seek medical advice promptly. A healthcare provider can offer a thorough evaluation, appropriate imaging, and, if necessary, further testing to ensure your breast health is monitored and managed effectively. Remember, being proactive about your health is the best approach to ensuring peace of mind and well-being.

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