The information on this webpage is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnoses and treatment of a medical or health condition.
Breast Changes that are not Cancer, but Increase Your Risk of Cancer
These conditions are not cancer, but having them increases your risk of breast cancer. They are considered risk factors for breast cancer.
Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia
Atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) is a condition in which abnormal cells are found in the breast lobules.
Follow Up Care
Mammograms every year
Clinical breast exams every 6 to 12 months.
Tamoxifen (for all women) or raloxifene (for postmenopausal women) may be taken.
Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia
Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is a condition in which abnormal cells are found in the breast ducts.
Follow Up Care
Mammograms every year
Clinical breast exams every 6 to 12 months.
Tamoxifen (for all women) or raloxifene (for postmenopausal women) may be taken.
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition in which abnormal cells are found in the breast lobules. There are more abnormal cells in the lobule with LCIS than with ALH. Since these cells have not spread outside the breast lobules, it's called "in situ," which is a Latin term that means "in place."
Follow Up Care
Mammograms every year
Clinical breast exams every 6 to 12 months.
Tamoxifen (for all women) or raloxifene (for postmenopausal women) may be taken.
A small number of women with LCIS and high risk factors for breast cancer may choose to have surgery.
Clinical trials may be an option for you. Talk with your doctor about whether a clinical trial is a good choice for you.
Fibroadenomas
Fibroadenomas are hard, round lumps that may feel like a small marble and move around easily. They are usually painless and are most common in young women under 30 years old.
Follow Up Care
A biopsy may be needed to diagnose fibroadenoma.
A minimally invasive technique such as ultrasound-guided cryoablation or an excisional biopsy may be used to remove the lumps.
growths may be watched by your doctor over time, since they may go away on their own.
Intraductal papilloma
Intraductal papilloma is a wart-like growth in a milk duct of the breast. It's usually found close to the nipple and may cause clear, sticky, or bloody discharge from the nipple. It may also cause pain and a lump. It is most common in women 35-55 years old.
Follow Up Care
A biopsy may be needed to diagnose the growth and remove it.
Reference: The web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov) accessed 1 April 2011.
