Breast Cysts

Question 1

def

Answer 1

a fluid-filled sac within the breast

Question 2

are beast cysts cancerous

Answer 2

not usually

they are usually benign

Question 3

aetiology

Answer 3

develop naturally as the breast changes with age

often form as a result of growth of lobules (milk-producing glands) + ducts (tubes which carry milk to the nipple)

Question 4

what are the risk factors of breast cysts

Answer 4

1 pregnancy (milk production)
2 develop more as women approaches menopause (stop once women approach menopause)
3 HRT

Question 5

epi

Answer 5

common >35yrs

women with breast cysts may be at an increased risk of breast cancer

Question 6

history + examination

Answer 6

1 smooth, mobile round/oval lump with distinct edges
2 breast pain in area of lump
3 increased lump size or tenderness just before menstruation
4 decreased lump size or tenderness after menstruation
5 discharge (clear/yellow/dark brown)

Question 7

investigations

Answer 7

1 USS
2 aspiration (removal of contents with needle)
-diagnostic + curative
-for biopsy to determine if benign or malignant
3 mammogram

Question 8

what is indicated if the cyst contains solid nodules on USS

Answer 8

lesion may be precancerous or cancerous

Question 9

why might oral contraceptives be prescribed to someone with a drained cyst

Answer 9

treatment with needle aspiration biopsies often recur

OCP reduces recurrence