Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenoma is the most common type of benign tumor found in the breast, primarily affecting young women aged 15 to…
Fibroadenoma, commonly referred to as breast fibroadenoma, is a common benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the breast.
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Fibroadenoma of the Breast
Fibroadenoma, commonly referred to as breast fibroadenoma, is a common benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the breast. Fibroadenomas can occur as single or multiple masses and may be present in one breast or both simultaneously.
Fibroadenomas are most frequently found in the upper outer quadrant of both breasts, where the glandular tissue is more developed. They typically feel firm and may resemble a glass marble moving beneath the skin, and are usually painless.
Diagnosis of Fibroadenoma
If a woman discovers a lump during a self-examination, it is advisable to consult a doctor for evaluation. Upon finding a lump, the doctor will arrange for imaging tests, such as mammography or breast ultrasound. If there is any suspicion regarding the nature of the lump based on imaging, a fine needle aspiration or core needle biopsy may be performed to extract cells or tissue for pathological examination.
Causes of Fibroadenoma
The exact cause of fibroadenomas remains unclear, but they are generally believed to be related to hormonal imbalances. Fibroadenomas are most common in women aged 20 to 30, and they may enlarge before menstruation, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding. The growth rate of each fibroadenoma can vary: some may shrink over time without treatment, while others may continue to grow. There are no effective methods to prevent them, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet can help boost immunity and regulate hormone levels.
Fibroadenoma and Breast Cancer
Dr. YING Wai Leung Marcus, a Specialist in General Surgery at Chiron Medical Group, states that even if a fibroadenoma exceeds 5 cm, the likelihood of it becoming malignant is only 0.3%, which is lower than the natural risk of developing cancer. However, it is still recommended for women to undergo breast examinations and imaging scans every six months to a year to ensure that the fibroadenoma remains stable and does not increase in size. If a fibroadenoma gradually enlarges to over 3 cm, causes significant psychological stress, or is accompanied by persistent pain or suspicion of malignant transformation, the doctor may recommend surgical removal.
Surgery for Fibroadenoma
Dr. Ying explains that standard fibroadenomas, when completely excised, rarely recur. Recurrence after fibroadenoma surgery can happen in two scenarios: one is the development of a new tumor at the excision site, which may indicate that the surgery was not thorough; the other possibility is that the original tumor was not a simple fibroadenoma but rather a phyllodes tumor, which has a higher tendency for local recurrence. Therefore, regular follow-up examinations as directed by the doctor are essential post-surgery.
Disclaimer: The health information on this website has been reviewed by physicians from Chiron Medical Group. The content provided is for reference only and should not be considered medical advice, nor can it replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals regarding personal health conditions.
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