Fibroadenoma Flashcards
def
a benign tumour in the breast formed of mixed fibrous and glandular tissue
what are fibroadenomas also called
breast mice or breast mouse due to their high mobility in the breast
aetiology
partially hormone-related
therefore fibroadenomas are common during reproductive years, they may enlarge during pregnancy or with hormone therapy, and may shrink after menopause
what is associated with lower frequency of fibroadenomas
more healthy lifestyle, including fruit + veg, exercise and the OCP
epi
common in women of reproductive age (adolescent girls and women)
history + examination
a slowly growing lump in the breast of a woman of child-bearing age
the lump is round with distinct borders, mobile, firm and rubbery, and painless
investigations
all breast lumps should undergo the ‘triple assessment’
1 clinical examination
2 radiology (USS <35yrs, mammography + USS >35yrs)
3 histology/cytology with a needle biopsy
what mutation is assoociated with fibroadenoams
mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12)
what is a solid mass in the breast and a fluid-filled mass in the breast likely to be
solid mass - fibroadenoma
fluid-filled mass - cyst
management
the usual management is to reassure and discharge the patient, however regular monitoring with breast USS is recommended
surgical options are considered if any components of the triple assessment give abnormal findings
1 lumpectomy or excisional biopsy
-removal of breast tissue which is used to check for cancer
2 cryoablation
-freezing fibroadenoma
complications
complications of surgery include new fibroadenoma formation
only complex fibroadenomas increase risk of breast cancer
what are the two different type of fibroadenoma
simple
complex
what is a complex fibroadenoma
a fibroadenoma which contains epithelial calcifications or cysts
prognosis
regular checkups are recommended
fibroadenomas may shrink post menopause
good prognosis
where in the breast do fibroadenomas commonly arise
terminal duct of lobular unit of breast
