Breast Mass or Pain

The principal concern of any female patient who detects a breast mass is whether or not that mass is cancerous. The good news is that the majority of breast masses are benign/non-cancerous.  In general, breast masses may be broadly classified as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Common causes of benign breast masses include breast cysts (fluid filled lumps), fibrocystic breast disease (fibrocystic changes resulting in a thickening of fibrous tissue that forms lumps), fibroadenomas (benign tumors), and breast abscesses (common in women who are breastfeeding). Common causes of malignant breast disease encompass many different types of breast cancer.  It is important to have any breast mass assessed via clinical breast examination.  Further investigation via ultrasound or mammography may be recommended by the health care provider.

There are a wide range of possible causes for breast pain and tenderness.  Breast pain (also known as mastalgia) is typically related with benign causes such as puberty, pregnancy, fibrocystic changes, or hormone level changes (during menstruation).  Medication and lifestyle changes can drastically improve the symptoms associated with breast pain.  It is rare that breast cancer is the cause of isolated breast pain, although a patient with breast pain should always be evaluated by her health care professional.

If you detected a breast mass or experiencing pain, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled providers.