Fibroadenoma

What is Fibroadenoma ?

Fibroadenomas are benign breast tumors commonly found in young women in the age group of 15 to 40 years. Fibroadenoma means "a tumor composed of glandular (related to gland) and fibrous (containing fibers) tissues."

Described as feeling like marbles, these firm, round, movable, and "rubbery" lumps range from 1-5 cm in size. Giant fibroadenomas are larger, lemon-sized lumps. Usually single, but some women have more than one. While some types of breast lumps come and go during the menstrual cycle, fibroadenomas typically do not disappear after a woman's period, and should be checked by a doctor.

What causes Fibroadenoma?

The cause of breast fibroadenomas is unknown. They may be dependent upon estrogen, because they are common in premenopausal women, can be found in postmenopausal women taking estrogen, and they tend to grow larger in pregnant women. Generally when it occurs in young women, it is benign, but when it occurs in postmenopausal women, they need to take extra care as they are found to be malignant. Fibroadenomas usually cause no symptoms and may be discovered during breast self-examination, or during a routine check-up.

If a breast is injured by trauma, tiny blood vessels can rupture to cause an area of localized bleeding. Trauma to the breast can damage the fat cells in the breast tissue, a condition called fat necrosis. The injury can also form a lump in the breast. These types of lumps that follow a significant trauma are not cancerous.

What to do when you find a lump on the breast?

Immediately go to your family doctor, who will advise you to meet a Surgeon.

How will the doctor diagnose?

The doctor takes a complete medical history, they will ask when the lump was first noticed, if there were any symptoms or changes in lump size, and if there is any personal or family history of breast disease.

The doctor thoroughly feels the breasts (palpates). Tests are done, usually including mammography or ultrasound scans, or surgical removal of cells or tissue for examination under a the microscope (biopsy).

What are the different diagnostic tests administered?

Diagnostic tests include:

• Mammogram. An x-ray examination of the breast.
• Ultrasound scan. A technique that uses sound waves to display a two-dimensional image of the breast, showing whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled (cystic).
• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy. A minor procedure wherein fluid or cells are drawn out of the lump through a small needle (aspirated).
• Core biopsy. A procedure wherein a larger piece of tissue is withdrawn from the lump through a larger needle.
• Incisional biopsy. A surgical procedure wherein a piece of the lump is removed through an cut (incision).
• Excisional biopsy. A surgical procedure wherein the entire lump is removed through an cut (incision).

What is the treatment for Fibroadenomas?

Breast fibroadenomas are removed by lumpectomy, or surgical excision under local or general anesthesia. Sometimes lumps in younger women are not removed but are monitored by self-examination, yearly doctor check-ups, and mammograms. Surgery is generally recommended for women over 30, and especially for lumps that are painful or enlarging.

Alternative treatments for breast fibroadenomas include a low-fat, high-fiber, vegetarian diet; a reduction in caffeine intake; supplementation with vitamins E and C; and the application of hot compresses to the breast. In addition, a focus on liver cleansing is important to assist the body in conjugation and elimination of excess estrogens. Botanical remedies can be useful in hormone balancing, as can acupuncture and homeopathy. Massaging the breasts with castor oil, straight or infused with herbs or essential oils, can help fibroadenomas reduce and dissipate, as well as keep women in touch with changes in their breast tissue.

Some facts about Breast Fibradenomas.

Breast fibroadenomas are not cancerous. The lumps recur in up to 20% of women. A small number of lumps disappear on their own. Breast fibroadenomas cannot be prevented. They can be discovered early by regular breast self-examination.

Courtesy: HealthAToZ.com , MedicineNet.com