Breast disorders
The table below describes some of the features seen in the most common breast disorders:
Lipomas and sebaceous cysts may also develop around the breast tissue.
| Disorder | Features |
|---|---|
| Fibroadenoma | Common in women under the age of 30 years Often described as 'breast mice' due as they are discrete, non-tender, highly mobile lumps |
| Fibroadenosis (fibrocystic disease, benign mammary dysplasia) | Most common in middle-aged women 'Lumpy' breasts which may be painful. Symptoms may worsen prior to menstruation |
| Breast cancer | Characteristically a hard, irregular lump. There may be associated nipple inversion or skin tethering Paget's disease of the breast - intraductal carcinoma associated with a reddening and thickening (may resemble eczematous changes) of the nipple/areola |
| Mammary duct ectasia | Dilatation of the large breast ducts Most common around the menopause May present with a tender lump around the areola +/- a green nipple discharge If ruptures may cause local inflammation, sometimes referred to as 'plasma cell mastitis' |
| Duct papilloma | Local areas of epithelial proliferation in large mammary ducts Hyperplastic lesions rather than malignant or premalignant May present with blood stained discharge |
| Fat necrosis | More common in obese women with large breasts May follow trivial or unnoticed trauma Initial inflammatory response, the lesion is typical firm and round but may develop into a hard, irregular breast lump Rare and may mimic breast cancer so further investigation is always warranted |
| Breast abscess | More common in lactating women Red, hot tender swelling |
Lipomas and sebaceous cysts may also develop around the breast tissue.