Fibrocystic Disease

Question 1

How common is it?

Answer 1

Up to half of women have it at some point in life.

Question 2

Who does it affect?

Answer 2

Women between 20 and 45. Rare in women after menopause unless they are taking oestrogen.

Question 3

What causes it?

Answer 3

Exact cause unknown.

Question 4

How does it present?

Answer 4

Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort in both breasts.
• Pain that commonly comes and goes with the period but may last through the whole month
• Breasts that feel full, swollen and heavy
• Pain or discomfort under the arms
• Thick or lumpy breasts

Question 5

How would you investigate?

Answer 5

• Breast exam – if lump found, triple assessment.

- If under 35, ultrasound. If over 40, mammogram may be appropriate.

Question 6

Treatments?

Answer 6

• Women with mild symptoms do not need treatment.
• Self-care measures
• If severe – maybe hormones such as birth control pills.