How can you tell the difference between fibroadenoma and cancer?
Unlike a breast cancer, which grows larger over time and can spread to other organs, a fibroadenoma remains in the breast tissue. They’re pretty small, too. Most are only 1 or 2 centimeters in size. It’s very rare for them to get larger than 5 centimeters across.
What are the symptoms of a benign breast tumor?
A benign breast condition can lead to a distinct growth or lump that sometimes can be felt through the skin. Or it can be something unusual picked up on a screening mammogram. If you have symptoms, they’re often similar to those associated with breast cancer, such as: pain, swelling, and/or tenderness in the breast.
How to tell if you have a fibroadenoma in your breast?
Fibroadenomas (fy-broe-ad-uh-NO-muhz) are solid, noncancerous breast lumps that occur most often in women between the ages of 15 and 35. A fibroadenoma might feel firm, smooth, rubbery or hard and has a well-defined shape. Usually painless, it might feel like a marble in your breast, moving easily under your skin when examined.
How can you tell if you have a phyllodes tumor or fibroadenoma?
To tell for sure if you have a phyllodes tumor or a fibroadenoma, your doctor will most likely have to remove the whole tumor. The tumor goes to a lab, where pathologists look at it under a microscope. If the tumor is noncancerous, the edges will be well-defined and the cells won’t divide quickly.
How big can a fibroadenoma tumor grow to?
Giant fibroadenomas. These can grow to larger than 2 inches (5 centimeters). They might need to be removed because they can press on or replace other breast tissue. Phyllodes tumor. Although usually benign, some phyllodes tumors can become cancerous (malignant).
What should you do if you have a fibroadenoma?
Fibroadenomas vary in size, and they can enlarge or shrink on their own. Fibroadenomas are among the most common noncancerous (benign) breast lumps in young women. Treatment might include monitoring to detect changes in size or feel, a biopsy to evaluate the lump or surgery to remove it.
