Breast Lumps
A breast lump is any swelling or thickening in the breast or armpit. Most are not cancer: in younger women the commonest causes are fibroadenomas (smooth, mobile, harmless lumps) and cysts, and some lumpiness comes and goes with the menstrual cycle. But breast cancer is the commonest cancer in Nigerian women, it is often diagnosed late, and it affects younger women more often than in Europe, so every new lump should be examined by a doctor rather than watched or treated with herbs.
Find a General Surgery SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- A change in the size or shape of a breast
- Skin dimpling, puckering or an 'orange peel' appearance
- A nipple that has recently turned inward
- Discharge from the nipple, especially if bloodstained
- A rash or crusting around the nipple
- Persistent pain in one part of the breast
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor within two weeks for any new lump in the breast or armpit, at any age, and for nipple changes, bloodstained discharge or skin changes. Do not wait for a lump to become painful: breast cancer is often painless. Know how your breasts normally look and feel, and from about 40 discuss mammography with your doctor.
Treatment options
- Triple assessment: examination, imaging (ultrasound, mammogram or both) and a needle biopsy where needed
- Reassurance and monitoring for simple cysts and confirmed fibroadenomas
- Drainage of painful cysts
- Removal of fibroadenomas that are large, growing or troublesome
- Breast cancer treatment by a specialist team: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy
Common Questions
Is a painful breast lump less likely to be cancer?
Painful lumps are more often cysts or hormonal changes, but pain does not rule out cancer, and most breast cancers are painless. Every new lump needs examining.
What is a fibroadenoma?
A smooth, firm, rubbery lump that moves easily under the fingers, common in young women. It is benign. Once confirmed on a scan or biopsy it can usually be left alone, or removed if it grows or is uncomfortable.
Can a biopsy spread breast cancer?
No. This is a common fear in Nigeria, but a needle biopsy does not spread cancer. It is the only way to know what a lump is, and it lets treatment be planned correctly.
Do men get breast lumps?
Yes. Breast enlargement in men (gynaecomastia) is common and usually harmless, but men can also get breast cancer. A hard lump on one side in a man should be checked.
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