What is a Breast Lump?
A breast lump is a swelling or localised thickening in the
breast. Breast lumps are common. Nine out of 10 breast lumps are benign (not
cancerous). Approximately 10% of breast lumps
ultimately lead to a diagnosis of breast cancer in women it’s essential that any
unusual changes to the breasts should be checked by a GP as soon as possible
for evaluation. Breast lumps are a common condition and have a number of
different causes.
Lumps in the breast can vary in size, shape and location. The causes can be diverse but it is important to identify their origin, and whether they are malignant or benign.
Possible Causes of Breast Lump (not an exhaustive list)
There are several different causes of benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps and breast
pain, including the following:
Fibroadenoma
Benign cysts
Menstrual
Cancer
Infection
Drug side effects
Papilloma
Blood clot
Injury
Insect Bites
Acne
Warning Signs for Breast Lump
If you have any of the conditions listed below, you should refer to your GP:
Any new or unexplained lump in the breast
If you are a young woman and are unaware of how to perform a breast self-examination
If you are a woman 45 years of age or over and have never had a mammography
If you are a man and have an unexplained lump in the breast region
Any lump or swelling in the breast region that is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms
Breast Lump Caution for Children
Lumps in the breast region can occur in both sexes at different ages and are a normal part of development. A lump can sometimes be found under the nipple of a newborn infant in both males and females. This is breast tissue that has enlarged in response to oestrogens from the mother's blood stream, and as such is perfectly normal.
The onset of puberty in young girls may exhibit as a lump in one of the breasts around the age of nine or even earlier. Adolescent boys undergoing puberty sometimes exhibit breast enlargement and tenderness with a lump under the nipple. This is also in response to changing hormones and usually resolves with time.
Breast Lump Caution for the Elderly
Any unexplained lumps should be investigated. Women between the ages of 50-65 are recommended to have a mammogram every three years as a screening procedure.
Medical Advice for Breast Lump
The most important advice for all women is to develop good breast awareness and perform regular breast self-examinations. It is important to remember that, although uncommon, men can also get breast cancer and it is vital that any new and unexplained lumps are referred immediately.
Almost a quarter of lumps found in the mature female breast are cancerous. Early detection is of the utmost importance for the successful treatment of breast cancer. If any irregularities in the breast coincide with the commencement of prescription medication, then this should be referred to the appropriate doctor.
Hair follicles in the breast region can sometimes become infected and produce pain and swelling. In this case, antiseptic should be applied and the condition referred. Insect bites can be treated with antiseptics, antihistamines or hydrocortisone to reduce swelling and itching.
Swelling due to harmless but abnormal growths of breast tissue (fibroadenosis), still needs to have any risk of malignancy eliminated. Adequate bras should be worn for good support and prevention of irritation.
Treatment for Breast LumpIn most cases, breast lump does
not need any treatment unless the lump is particularly large or painful. After
diagnosing the possible cause of your breast lump, your GP will advise you
about any treatment that is necessary. If treatment is not required, you may be
asked to return if you notice any further changes to your breasts.
Analgesics
Antihistamines
Antihistamine creams
Hydrocortisone cream
Antiseptics
Breast awareness aids
Dr. A. Bose © Allcures.com September 2011