Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M. Breast lumps must be differentiated from other diseases such as malignancy , cysts , inflammation and non-inflammatory solid lumps. Breast symptoms such as nipple discharge and mastalgia require assessment as well. Differentiating different types of breast lumps are based on imaging findings and breast clinical exam results.
A more recent article on common breast problems is available. See related patient information handout on breast pain , written by Amy S. Weichel, D. Related Editorial.
Rapid Fluctuation in the size is common. Frequently, pain occurs or worsens and size increases during premenses. Most common age is Increased risk of breast cancer if they have a variant with epithelial proliferation. More frequent and occurs at younger age in black women.
Benign Breast Conditions. J Am Osteopath Assoc ; 12 — Breast masses and nipple discharge are common symptoms that lead women to seek medical care. Many of the findings on subsequent examination are benign. When evaluating a patient who presents with breast masses or nipple discharge, it is useful to take a holistic approach to evaluating the patient, including a detailed history, structural and directed physical examination, and, if indicated, laboratory studies, diagnostic imaging, and biopsy.