Benign breast conditions

Benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions are quite common and can sometimes mimic the symptoms of breast cancer, such as lumps, pain, or nipple discharge. However, they do not spread or pose the same threat as cancer. Here are some of the most common benign breast conditions.

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

  • Lumpy or rope-like texture
  • Breast tenderness or pain, especially before menstruation
  • Often affects both breasts
  • Breast Cysts

    • Fluid-filled sacs
    • Soft or firm, movable lumps
    • Can fluctuate in size with menstrual cycle
  • Fibroadenomas

    • Solid, smooth, rubbery, and movable
    • Most common in younger women (teens to early 30s)
    • Generally painless
  • Intraductal Papilloma

    • Small wart-like growth in a milk duct near the nipple
    • May cause nipple discharge (clear or bloody)
    • Usually occurs in women aged 35–55

Duct Ectasia

 

    • Dilation and thickening of milk ducts
    • Can cause green, sticky nipple discharge
    • Nipple retraction and tenderness may occur

Fat Necrosis

  • Lump formed by damaged or dead fatty tissue, often after trauma or surgery
  • May feel like a hard lump
  • Can mimic breast cancer on imaging