Woman Exam Flashcards
The female breast lies against
anterior thoracic wall
The female breast extends from
clavicle and 2nd rib down to the 6th rib and from the sternum across to the midaxillary line
What does the breast overlie
pectoralis major and the serratus anterior at the inferior margin
What is physiologic nodularity
uneven texture (granular, nodular, lumpy) in the adult breast that is normal
Where do most breast lymphatics drain
toward to axilla
What axillary lymph node is palpable most often
central nodes
Where does lymph drain
from the central axillary node to the infra and supraclavicular nodes
Where do malignant cells of breast cancer drain to
spread to infraclavicular nodes or into the internal mammary chain of lymph nodes
How often should a self breast exam be done and when?
once a month after age 20; 5-7 days after onset of menses; in the shower is best
Instructions for BSE supine
- lying supine with pillow under right shoulder and right arm behind head
- use finger pads of three middle finger of left hand to feel for lumps in the right breast
- press firmly enough and firmest on tissue closest to chest and ribs
- check entire area using up and down or circular pattern
- Repeat on left side
Instructions for BSE standing
- stand in front of mirror with hands pressed firmly down on hips, observe breasts for changes in size, shape, contour, dimpling, or redness or scaliness of nipple of breast skin
- examine each underarm and with your arm only slightly raise so you can easily feel this area
What are provacative maneuvers in clinical breast exam
Patient seated for al the moves below: arms at side hands on hips arms above head hands pressed together and leaning forward
How do you inspect the breasts?
patient needs to be sitting
What is the best validated technique for palpation of the breast?
patient supine and vertical strip pattern
Findings consistent with malignancy
Hard consistency Irregular shape Dimpling of overlying skin Associated retraction of nipple (inverted) Non-tender
