Fibroadenoma

Question 1

Define fibroadenoma

Answer 1

Benign tumour arising from stromal and epithelial tissue

Question 2

What are the causes/risk factors of fibroadenomas?

Answer 2

• Early reproductive age (15-25 years)

Question 3

What are the symptoms of fibroadenomas?

Answer 3

• Painless
•  firm
•  solitary
•  mobile
•  slow growing lump
• no systemic symptoms
• no nipple discharge
(Breast mouse)

Question 4

What are the signs of fibroadenomas?

Answer 4

• smooth surface
• distinct borders
• rubbery consistency
• mobile
• no fixity
• no lymphadenopathy

Question 5

What investigations are carried out for fibroadenomas?

Answer 5

Triple assessment
• History and examination
• Imaging
- USS <35 years
- Mammography >35 years
• Biopsy
- FNA (fluid-filled)
- Core biopsy (solid)

Question 6

What is the management for fibroadenomas?

Answer 6

Conservative
• The majority of cases
• Reassure the patient that it is non-cancerous.
• Monitor
• It will often resolve over several years.

Medical:
• Ormeloxifene (SERM) may sometimes be used to shrink the fibroadenoma. This is not routinely done.

Surgical: 
• Excisional Biopsy 
• Indications for surgical removal: 
- Patient preference 
- Lump that increases in size 
- Discomfort