Fibroadenomas
Understanding and Managing Benign Breast Lumps
Fibroadenomas are common benign breast lumps primarily affecting young women. Our expert team provides comprehensive diagnosis and management of these non-cancerous growths.
What are Fibroadenomas?
Fibroadenomas are benign solid lumps commonly found in young women and may develop up to the age of menopause. Usually fibroadenomas are not painful although there are exceptions.
Diagnosis
Fibroadenomas have a characteristic appearance on ultrasound, usually displaying an oval shape with a solid centre (grey on ultrasound). If they present as a lump or if their appearance on ultrasound is not typical then needle biopsy (fine needle or core biopsy) should be performed.
Diagnostic Features
- Oval shape on ultrasound
- Solid centre (grey appearance)
- Needle biopsy may be needed for atypical appearance
When Treatment is Needed
Fibroadenomas may enlarge overtime. If this growth is rapid or if they become quite large, for example over 3 cm, then removal or repeat biopsy may be necessary to exclude breast cancer or other unusual tumours such as phyllodes tumours.
Multiple Fibroadenomas
Some women may develop many fibroadenomas in each breast and it is impractical to biopsy each one. In this setting monitoring with regular ultrasound or possibly breast MRI can be performed.
Cancer Risk
Good News
Fibroadenomas do not significantly increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer.
Expert Care for Fibroadenomas
Get expert evaluation and management of fibroadenomas from our FRACS qualified breast specialists. We provide comprehensive care from diagnosis to ongoing monitoring.