Fibrocystic breast disease

Alternative names:

benign breast disease; chronic cystic mastitis; mammary dysplasia

Symptoms:

• a dense, irregular and bumpy "cobblestone" consistency in the breast tissue
  • usually more marked in the outer quadrants

• breast discomfort that is persistent or that occurs off and on (intermittent)
  • breast(s) feel full
  • dull, heavy pain and tenderness
  • premenstrual tenderness and swelling

• breast discomfort improves after each menstrual period
• nipple sensation changes, itching

Note: Symptoms may range from mild to severe. Symptoms typically peak just before each menstrual period and improve immediately after the menstrual period.

Signs and tests:

Physical examination reveals the presence of mobile (non-anchored) breast "masses". These masses are usually rounded, with smooth borders, and either rubbery or slightly fluctuant (changeable in shape ). Dense tissue may make the beast examination more difficult to interpret.

• Mammography may be difficult to interpret due to dense tissue.
• A biopsy of the breast may be necessary to rule out other disorders.
• Aspiration of the breast with a fine needle is often diagnostic and therapeutic for larger cysts.