Benign Breast Conditions

The breast is made up of two main types of tissue:

• Glandular Tissue - the lobules and ducts of the breast
• Stromal Tissue - the fatty tissue and supporting ligaments

In any area of the breast, tissues can experience changes, causing benign and/or malignant breast disorders or diseases. The most common among benign breast diseases are:

• Fibrocystic changes
• Benign breast tumors
• Breast inflammation

What types of changes should I be looking for?

While many of the breast changes that women experience are not malignant, if any of the following changes are present for more than two weeks, consultation with a medical provider should be sought:

• Breast lump or mass
• Enlargement of lymph nodes in the armpit
• Changes in size, shape, skin texture or color of breast
• Skin redness
• Skin dimpling, puckering or scaliness
• Nipple changes or discharge, other than breast milk
• Nipple pulling to one side or a change in direction

What can I expect during the appointment with my health care provider?

• A physical examination to:
  • Locate any lump and evaluate its size, texture, and relationship to skin and chest muscles
  • Evaluate changes in the nipples or skin
  • Check lymph nodes under the armpit and surrounding areas
• Recommend imaging tests including diagnostic mammography and/or breast ultrasound
• Request laboratory evaluation of nipple discharge
• Request a ductogram X-ray of the nipples
• If deemed necessary, a biopsy may be scheduled to remove tissue from the suspicious area

To schedule an appointment for a mammogram or other breast imaging test, please call Central Scheduling at 443-225-7474.