Breast cancer has garnered a lot of attention in the last decade, with a lot of information everywhere. It has also brought fear and anxiety. Most people do not realise that about 80% of breast symptoms are attributed to benign (non-cancerous) conditions.
The symptoms in the breast may be common for both benign and cancerous conditions, which include breast lumps, nipple discharge or skin changes. The breast is made up of glands, fat, milk ducts and connective tissue. A variety of conditions can arise from any of these structures. Following are some common examples of benign breast conditions.
Aberrations in Normal Development and Involution of the Breast (ANDI)
It is a broad term that includes benign breast diseases. It highlights the fact that most changes in the breast are normal, or just minor deviations from the normal development of the breast. Hence, all symptoms pertaining to the breast are not necessarily due to a disease process. These changes can occur throughout the lifetime of a woman as the breast undergoes different changes during different phases of life. Common examples include “cyclical mastalgia” which means pain, discomfort or tenderness in the breasts, just before or during menstruation, which is usually self-limiting and subsides at the end of menstruation. Other examples include polymastia (a rare condition where a person is born with more than two breasts), polythelia (presence of more than two nipples), accessory axillary breast tissue (additional breast tissue in the armpit region) and congenital inversion (inward drawing) of nipples.
Breast Cysts
These are fluid-filled sacs within the breast. They can occur in women of any age but are more common in the 30s and 40s. These can be tender or lumpy and are usually affected by monthly hormonal changes. Breast cysts do not increase the risk of cancer. The most common types of cysts are simple cysts which usually do not require any treatment. Some cysts can be complex or complicated cysts which may require further evaluation.
Fibroadenoma
These are common breast lumps made up of both gland and connective tissue. These are most common in women in their 20s and 30s but can occur in women of any age. These can present as smooth well-defined lumps in the breast which may sometimes feel like a marble within the breast. They can be multiple and present in both breasts. Fibroadenomas can be of varying sizes. Most fibroadenomas do not need any treatment and can be kept on follow-up. They usually shrink after menopause. However, in some cases, doctors might recommend removing them, especially if they are growing in size or changing the shape of the breast.
Duct Ectasia/Periductal Mastitis Complex
This is a non-cancerous condition that involves the widening of the milk ducts. This can sometimes cause the ducts to get blocked which can further lead to infection. These are usually common in women who are nearing menopause. Patients may present with symptoms of nipple discharge which is usually thick and sticky. The nipple may sometimes be pulled inwards and the surrounding breast may become red and painful. Symptoms usually subside without treatment, however, sometimes antibiotics may be required. If symptoms are persistent or recurrent, then a minor surgery may be required to remove the milk ducts.
Lactational Breast Issues
Women who are breastfeeding can have a unique set of breast issues. The most common is “breast engorgement” which occurs due to incomplete emptying of the milk ducts. If breast engorgement is persistent, it may sometimes lead to “mastitis” (inflammation) of the breast which presents with symptoms like pain, redness or fever. It usually requires antibiotics and proper emptying of the breast. Mastitis can sometimes progress to form “breast abscesses” which are pus-filled cavities in the breast. The pus in these breast abscesses needs to be removed either by using a needle (aspiration) or in severe cases, with surgical drainage.
To conclude, in addition to breast cancer, there are many conditions in the breast that are benign (non-cancerous). It is important to understand that symptoms may overlap. Hence, it is advised to consult a doctor to be able to receive appropriate treatment for the same and relieve any fears or anxieties surrounding breast disorders.
Dr. Keerthi. K
Associate Consultant – Breast Surgery,
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
Forever Thankful: A Patient’s Message of Gratitude
I wanted to express my heartfelt thanks for your expertise and professionalism during the surgery. Your skill and compassion throughout the entire process were truly amazing.
I’m grateful for the excellent care you provided and the positive outcome of the surgery. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to perform such an intricate and life-saving procedure, but your dedication to your patients is evident.
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