The breast is a symbol of femininity and fertility.
If a woman notices any breast changes (e.g. palpation of lumps), there is no need for panic nor complacency. Breast diseases are divided into benign and malignant. It is important to know that 80% of all palpable nodules are benign.
Breast cysts
Fluid-filled sacs with smooth boundaries. Cysts are soft in texture, nimble under palpation and may be painless or painful. They occur in women of reproductive age and they usually regress after menopause.
Fibroadenomas
They are solid, round, rubbery lumps created by excess formation of milk producing glands with surrounding fibrosis. They are the most common benign tumors found in young women 20 -40 years. They slip easily under the examining fingers.
Intraductal papilloma
Wart-like growths in the ducts that carry milk from the glands to the nipple. They usually occur in the ducts located directly behind the nipple and they clinically present with secretion of fluid from the nipple. It is more common in women 40 to 50 years.
Fibrocystic condition
This is the changes observed due to exaggerated response of breast tissue to the influence of hormones. Estrogens cause swelling of the mammary glands, duct dilatation and fluid retention. Symptoms worsen just before a woman’s menstrual cycle and lessen near the end
Women usually experience heavy swollen painful breasts with palpable nodules. It occurs in women aged 30 to 45 years.