Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

Benign fluid-filled sacs

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

Usually disappear after menopause – related to hormone changes

Exact cause unknown

Question 3

Epidemiology

Answer 3

Common in >35 yrs esp perimenopausal

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Fibrocustic Breast Disease:

• Small breast lump – irregular, indistinct border, mixed consistency, immobile, not fixed
• Causes breast pain
• Tenderness
• Increased lump size and tenderness just before menstruation

Breast cyst:

• Small breast lump – smooth, distinct border, firm to lax consistency (depending on fluid pressure within), immobile, not fixed
• Causes breast pain
• Tenderness
• Increased lump size and tenderness just before menstruation

Question 5

Signs

Answer 5

Fluid-filled, rounded lump; not fixed to surroundings; easily movable; smooth

Question 6

Investigation

Answer 6

• Triple assessment: Exam/ Imaging/ Cytology
• Imaging will show simple cysts, well-circumscribed with sharp borders.
  Note: mammography cannot distinguish between cystic and solid masses.
• Diagnosis confirmed on aspiration