I have a round hard lump in my breast?
There is a round hard lump in the area of the areola that is painful and swollen, causing discomfort and pain when wearing a bra.
Mǐqí, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/05/24
Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, regarding your inquiry, here are the responses:
(1) There are many causes for breast lumps or hard masses, including:
1.
Breast infections or abscesses, which typically occur in breastfeeding women.
2.
Benign tumors: such as granulosa cell tumors, fibroadenomas, phyllodes tumors, and intraductal papillomas.
Intraductal papillomas usually occur in the larger ducts near the areola and may present with lumps, pain, and bloody discharge from the nipple.
3.
Non-tumorous hard masses:
(1) Fat necrosis within the breast (which may occur spontaneously or due to trauma), leading to fibrotic lumps in that area.
(2) As women age, abnormal dilation of certain segments of the ducts beneath the areola or within the ducts can cause lumps and pain.
(3) Simple cysts - fluid accumulation within the ducts.
(4) Breast cysts - typically occur in breastfeeding women, where milk accumulates within the ducts.
(5) The most common non-tumorous hard mass is fibrocystic breast changes, usually occurring in women aged 30 to 50.
Both breasts may be affected, with more pronounced pain and swelling symptoms around the menstrual cycle (related to estrogen and progesterone stimulation).
4.
Ductal carcinoma in situ and breast cancer.
(2) To assess a breast lump, one must consider factors such as age, menstrual cycle, the shape and texture of the lump, and whether there is any nipple discharge and its color.
If there is nipple discharge, it can be collected for cytological examination.
If a cyst is present, fine needle aspiration can be performed to obtain fluid for cytological analysis.
If it is solid, core needle biopsy or surgical excision can be done for pathological examination.
Additionally, mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI can assist in diagnosis.
(3) It is recommended that you consult a breast specialist for further detailed examination.
Thank you for your inquiry!
Reply Date: 2008/05/24
More Info
When it comes to painful lumps near the areola, it is essential to understand the potential causes and the appropriate steps to take for diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a hard, painful lump in the breast area can be concerning, and it is crucial to approach this issue with a clear understanding of the possible underlying conditions.
One common cause of painful lumps near the areola is a condition known as a fibroadenoma. Fibroadenomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that are often found in young women. They are typically round, firm, and movable under the skin. While they are usually painless, they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if they are located near sensitive areas like the areola.
Another possibility is a cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that can develop in the breast tissue. Cysts can vary in size and may cause pain or tenderness, particularly if they become large or if they are located near the surface of the breast. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during the menstrual cycle, can also influence the formation of cysts and their associated discomfort.
In some cases, the painful lump may be related to an infection or inflammation, such as mastitis or a breast abscess. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that can occur during breastfeeding, leading to swelling, redness, and pain. An abscess is a collection of pus that can form as a result of infection, and it may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.
Another important consideration is the possibility of a more serious condition, such as breast cancer. While most breast lumps are benign, it is essential to have any new or unusual lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if they are painful, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in the skin, discharge from the nipple, or changes in breast size or shape.
If you are experiencing a painful lump near the areola, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or a breast specialist. During the evaluation, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to assess the lump further. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.
In summary, painful lumps near the areola can arise from various causes, including benign conditions like fibroadenomas and cysts, as well as infections or more serious concerns like breast cancer. It is crucial to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Early evaluation and intervention can help alleviate discomfort and address any underlying issues effectively. Remember, when it comes to breast health, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
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