Breast Cysts

Question 1

what is a breast cyst

Answer 1

Characterised by ‘lumpy’ breasts associated with pain and tenderness that fluctuate with the menstrual cycle

Question 2

aetiology/ causes of breast cysts

Answer 2

aberration in normal development and a higher cellular proliferation of the breast epithelium may contribute to fibrocystic changes

Question 3

risk factors for developing breast cysts

Answer 3

nulliparity (never having a child)

late menopause

later age at first childbirth

obesity

ORT (oestrogen-replacement therapy) for infertility etc

Question 4

presenting symptoms

Answer 4

Mastalgia, diffuse symmetrical lumpiness in both breasts, palpable breast mass and nipple discharge

Question 5

investigations

Answer 5

mammography, ultrasound

cyst aspiration and breast biopsy

Question 6

define Mastalgia

Answer 6

breast pain. Can be cyclical

Question 7

what does bloody nipple discharge suggest

Answer 7

malignancy, urgent referral to oncologist

Question 8

treatment of Mastalgia ongoing

Answer 8

analgesia and supportive care

Question 9

treatment of symptomatic breast cyst

Answer 9

cyst aspiration

Question 10

treatment of atypical hyperplasia

Answer 10

removal of lesion and risk reduction strategies

Question 11

prognosis of Mastalgia

Answer 11

Approximately two-thirds of patients require repeated cycles of hormonal treatment. A hormonal event such as menopause is most often associated with spontaneous remission of pain. Recurrent or chronic breast pain has little or no effect on daily activities; however, sexual relations seem to be affected most

Question 12

Prognosis of breast cysts

Answer 12

Breast cysts also demonstrate a relapsing course; 26.7% of all cases experience recurrence after a median follow-up of 1 year. Recurrence occurs more frequently in patients with a previous history of cysts and when cysts are bilateral or multiple