Common Breast Abnormalities
Breast Cyst
Breast cysts are accumulations of fluid that may be small or large and tend to be the most common cause of breast lumps in women. Simple cysts ar round or oval and have smooth edges. Complex cysts can be filled with debris and may require aspiration to confirm that they are benign. Multiple cysts are very common. The exact causes of cysts are not known but tend to change with hormonal variations. Breast cysts are not cancer and do not increase your risk of cancer. Unforunately, they may be quite uncomfortable.
Breast Abscess
A breast abscess is a closed pocket of tissue containing pus (a creamy, thick yellow or yellor-green fluid). Abscess is commonly caused by infection. Breast abscesses may be accompanied by fever and breast pain.
Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenomas are common benign breast tumors. They range in size from being too small to feel by hand to several inches in diameter. Fibroadenomas are made up of both grandular and stromal (connective) breast tissue. Fibroadenomas may require a biopsy. Dr. Cross will inform the patient if he feels a biopsy is necessary.
Breast Mass
A breast mass is any group of breast cells that are clustered together more densely than surrounding breast tissue. Masses can be either palpable (able to feel) or nonpalpable (unable to feel). Masses can be either benign or malignant.
Micro-calcifications
Micro-calcifications show up on mammograms as "little white dots". Approximately 90% of these turn out to be benign but need to be monitored. Approximately 10%