What are breast lumps?

Breast lumps are common, and while they can cause concern, the majority are not cancerous. A breast lump refers to any growth or thickening within the breast tissue. They can vary in size, shape, and texture, and may be painful or painless. Breast lumps can develop for various reasons, and while some are harmless, others may require medical attention. Early detection and evaluation are essential for understanding the cause and ensuring appropriate treatment.

Types of breast lumps

Breast lumps can arise from different causes. Some of the most common types include:

• Fibroadenomas: These are benign (non-cancerous) lumps, often found in younger women. They are typically smooth, firm, and move easily under the skin.
• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue, often during the menstrual cycle or as part of hormonal changes. Cysts are typically harmless but may be painful.
• Breast abscesses: An infection within the breast tissue can lead to the formation of pus-filled abscesses, which may cause redness, swelling, and pain.
• Fat necrosis: A benign condition where fatty tissue in the breast becomes damaged, often due to injury or surgery, leading to lump formation.
• Breast cancer: Some lumps are caused by malignant (cancerous) changes in the breast tissue. While most lumps are benign, it is crucial to seek medical advice if you notice any changes in your breast.

Symptoms of breast lumps

The symptoms of breast lumps can vary depending on the type of lump and its cause. Common symptoms include:

• A noticeable lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Nipple discharge (not associated with breastfeeding)
• Nipple inversion or changes in the skin (such as dimpling or puckering)
• Persistent breast pain or tenderness

It’s important to remember that not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any changes in your breast should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Diagnosis

If you find a lump in your breast or notice any changes, your GP may refer you to a breast clinic for further evaluation. At the clinic, several diagnostic tests may be carried out to determine the cause of the lump, including:

• Clinical breast examination: A doctor will physically examine your breasts to assess the lump’s size, texture, and movement.
• Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast used to detect any abnormal tissue.
• Ultrasound: A scan that uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue, often used to differentiate between solid lumps and cysts.
• Biopsy: A small sample of breast tissue is taken to examine for cancerous cells. This may involve fine needle aspiration or core biopsy.
• MRI: In some cases, an MRI scan may be used to provide more detailed images of the breast.

Treatment options

The treatment for a breast lump depends on the cause. Common treatment options include:

• Observation: For benign lumps such as fibroadenomas or small cysts, no immediate treatment may be necessary, but regular monitoring may be recommended.
• Aspiration: For cysts, a needle may be used to drain the fluid, relieving discomfort and allowing the lump to resolve.
• Antibiotics: If the lump is caused by an infection, such as a breast abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to remove a lump, particularly if it is large, causes discomfort, or has suspicious features.
• Cancer treatment: If the lump is diagnosed as cancerous, treatment may involve surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), followed by radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Possible risks and side effects of treatment

While most treatments for benign breast lumps are straightforward, some carry risks. Surgical removal of lumps may result in scarring or changes in breast appearance. Aspiration of cysts may require repeat procedures if the fluid reaccumulates. Infection, bleeding, and wound healing complications can also occur after surgery. For cancerous lumps, more complex treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy may have side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and increased infection risk.

Recovery and follow-up care

Recovery depends on the type of lump and the treatment received. Simple procedures like aspiration may require little to no recovery time, while surgery may involve a longer healing period. Your healthcare team will provide specific post-treatment care instructions, including pain management and wound care if surgery was performed.

Follow-up care is essential, especially for patients who have had cancerous lumps removed. Regular check-ups and imaging tests may be recommended to monitor your breast health and ensure early detection of any new lumps or changes.

Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?

At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we offer expert care for breast lump diagnosis and treatment. Our experienced specialists use the latest diagnostic technologies to ensure timely and accurate assessments. We provide personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs, and our multidisciplinary team works together to offer comprehensive care, from initial consultation through recovery.

Contact us

If you notice any changes in your breast or are concerned about a breast lump, don’t hesitate to contact us at Birmingham Breast Clinic.