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Benign Breast Conditions
Common non-cancerous (benign) breast conditions include:
Fibroadenomas:
Solid, non-cancerous tumors that often occur in women during their reproductive
years. A fibroadenoma is a firm, smooth, rubbery lump with a definite shape. It
moves under skin when touched and usually is painless.
Fibrocystic changes:
Fibrocystic changes are normal physiological alterations in the breast that can
include swelling before a menstrual cycle, lumpiness or cysts, which are fluid-filled
sacs. They are very common, occurring in at least half of all women. In most cases
the changes are harmless. They do not increase breast cancer risk. However, if breasts
are very lumpy, performing a breast self-exam is more challenging. Becoming familiar
with what's normal for you through self-exams will help make detecting any new lumps
or changes easier.
Calcium deposits (microcalcifications):
These minute deposits of calcium can appear anywhere in your breast and often show
up on a mammogram. Many women have one or more areas of microcalcifications of various
sizes. Secretions from cells, cellular debris, inflammation, trauma or prior radiation
may cause them. The majority of calcium deposits are harmless, but a small percentage
may be pre-cancerous or cancer. If any appear suspicious, your physician will probably
recommend additional tests.
Click the links on the left margin to review information regarding pre-malignant breast conditions and breast cancer.
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