Fibroadenoma of the mammary gland

Disease Description

A benign neoplasm most often occurring in women under the age of 35. Fibroadenoma is a rounded, dense structure not adhered to the surrounding tissues, and in 85% of cases affects only one mammary gland.

According to WHO statistics, fibroadenoma is diagnosed in approximately 30% of women and rarely undergoes malignant transformation (develops into cancer).

Symptoms indicating the need for diagnosis and treatment

The disease may be asymptomatic and be discovered accidentally during self-examination or preventive screening.

Depending on the type of fibroadenoma, women may present with:

• Painful lump in the breast
• Discomfort in the mammary gland, increasing toward the end of the menstrual cycle
• Swelling and engorgement of the breast
• Rapid growth of the mass
• Increased nipple sensitivity
• Appearance of capillaries on the breast

Diagnostic and treatment methods

Diagnosis

An important diagnostic criterion is examination on the 5th-7th day of the menstrual cycle. It includes visual assessment of shape, symmetry, skin and nipple condition, as well as palpation of the mammary glands in various positions.

At the next stage, doctors in European clinics use instrumental methods:

• Ultrasound
• Mammography (X-ray of the mammary glands)
• MRI
• Biopsy

Treatment

The main method of treatment is surgical. For this, advanced tumor removal techniques are used:

• Enucleation (shelling) — without affecting the surrounding tissues
• Sectoral resection (for large neoplasms)
• Radio wave (at early stages)

Since mastopathy is associated with a disruption of hormonal rhythm, treatment will include hormone therapy for the prevention of relapses. Western medical centers use ultra-modern new-generation drugs that have passed all clinical trials and are distinguished by high therapeutic activity.

Innovations of world clinics

As a simultaneous diagnostic and treatment method, innovative vacuum aspiration biopsy under ultrasound control is used. Through mini-punctures with a diameter of 2 mm, trained specialists remove neoplasms up to 2—3 cm. The main advantage is the complete removal of the tumor while preserving the milk ducts and achieving an excellent cosmetic effect (without scars and hematomas). Hospitalization is not required for the woman to undergo the procedure, and within 2 hours she can return to her usual lifestyle.