Fibroadenomas are common benign (non-cancerous) breast tumors made up of both glandular tissue and stromal (connective) tissue. Fibroadenomas are most common in women in their 20s and 30s, but they can be found in women of any age. They tend to shrink after a woman goes through menopause
A fibroadenoma is usually felt as a lump in the breast which is smooth to the touch and moves easily under the skin.
Fibroadenomas are usually painless, but sometimes they may feel tender or even painful, particularly just before a period.
Most Fibroadenomas are about 1–3cm in size and are called simple Fibroadenomas. When looked at under a microscope, simple Fibroadenomas will look the same all over.
Simple Fibroadenomas do not increase the risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
Some Fibroadenomas are called complex fibroadenoma. When these are looked at under a microscope, some of the cells have different features.
Having a complex fibroadenoma can vary slightly increase the risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
Occasionally, a fibroadenoma can grow to more than 5cm and may be called a giant fibroadenoma. Those found in teenage girls may be called juvenile Fibroadenomas.
It’s not known what causes a fibroadenoma. It’s thought that it probably occurs because of increased sensitivity to the hormone estrogen. Or if the man hold and play with the breast very hard for long time and can injure the fiber tissue.
Breasts are made up of lobules (milk-producing glands) and ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple). These are surrounded by glandular, fibrous and fatty tissue. This tissue gives breasts their size and shape.
Fibroadenomas develop from a lobule. The glandular tissue and ducts grow over the lobule and form a solid lump.
Fibroadenomas are often easier to identify in younger women. If you’re in your early 20s or younger, your fibroadenoma may be diagnosed with a breast examination and ultrasound only. However, if there’s any uncertainty about the diagnosis, a core biopsy or FNA will be done. Continue Reading →
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