1. Breast Mass Approach Breast mass refers to any localized swelling, lump, or abnormal growth in the breast tissue. Importance: Prompt evaluation and management are essential to differentiate benign from malignant causes.
Clinical Presentation Symptoms: Palpable lump Pain or tenderness ( mastalgia ) Nipple discharge Skin changes: dimpling, erythema, peau d'orange Patient Demographics: Age group Family history
History Taking: Onset and duration Cyclic vs. non-cyclic symptoms Associated nipple discharge Menstrual history and hormonal use Physical Examination: Location, size, and mobility of the mass Axillary and supraclavicular lymph nodes Bilateral breast comparison
Imaging: Mammography: First-line for women >40 years Ultrasound: Preferred for women <40 years or dense breasts MRI: In specific cases like high-risk patients Tissue Sampling: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) Core Needle Biopsy Excisional biopsy (if indicated)
Differential Diagnosis Benign Causes: Fibroadenoma Breast cyst Fibrocystic changes Lipoma Fat necrosis Malignant Causes: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) Invasive ductal or lobular carcinoma
Risk Stratification Red Flags for Malignancy: Fixed, hard mass Skin changes Nipple retraction or discharge (bloody/serous) Axillary lymphadenopathy
Management Approach Benign Lesions: Observation and follow-up Surgical excision if symptomatic or large Suspicious/Malignant Lesions: Refer to a specialist for further evaluation Multidisciplinary team approach (oncology, surgery, radiology)
Case Scenarios Case 1: A 25-year-old with a mobile, painless lump. Probable Diagnosis: Fibroadenoma Management: Ultrasound + FNAC Case 2: A 55-year-old with a fixed, irregular lump and bloody discharge. Probable Diagnosis: Malignancy Management: Mammogram + Core biopsy