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Breast lump: Early evaluation is essential
A breast lump can be frightening. Understand what to expect when you have a breast lump evaluated for breast cancer.
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you find a breast lump or other change in your breast, you may be worried about breast cancer — but take comfort in the odds. As many as 4 out of 5 breast lumps that are biopsied are noncancerous (benign). Still, it's important to have any breast lump evaluated by a doctor.
How breast tissue normally feels
Breasts contain tissues of varying consistency. Glandular tissue — primarily felt in the upper, outer part of the breast — usually feels firm and slightly rope-like, bumpy or lumpy (nodular). Surrounding fat tissue — often felt in the inner and lower parts of the breast — is soft. You may find that breast-related symptoms, such as tenderness or lumpiness, differ over the course of your menstrual cycle. Breast tissue also changes as you age, typically becoming more fatty and less dense over time.
When to consult a doctor
Familiarity with your normal breast consistency will help you determine if there's a change in your breasts. Consult your doctor if:
- You find a breast lump that's new or unusual and feels different from breast tissue in either breast
- A new breast lump doesn't go away after your next period
- A breast lump seems to have changed — it gets bigger, for instance
- You have bloody discharge from your nipple
- You notice skin changes on your breast, such as redness, crusting, dimpling or puckering
- Your nipple suddenly turns inward (inversion)
(1 of 2)
- Fletcher SW, et al. Primary care evaluation of breast lumps. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Non-cancerous breast conditions. American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6X_Non_Cancerous_Breast_Conditions_59.asp. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Understanding breast changes: A health guide for women. National Cancer Institute. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes/allpages. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Klein S., Evaluation of palpable breast masses. American Family Physician. 2005;71:1731.
- Pruthi S. Detection and evaluation of a palpable breast mass. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2001;76:641.
- Pruthi S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Accessed Feb. 23, 2010.
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