Fibroadenomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumours of the breasts. Fibroadenomas can appear as single or multiples. They can occur in one side or both sides of the breasts at the same time.

 

 

A roundish lump in the breasts

 

Many times, they are felt as lumps in the breasts by women themselves. They are roundish with distinct borders, and move easily under the skin. They are usually painless and can be easily ignored.

 

What causes fibroadenomas?

 

The exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown but it is generally believed to be caused by hormonal imbalance. Fibroadenomas are commonest in women in their 20s and 30s, but they can be found in women of any age. They tend to grow larger and become more obvious before menstruation, during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, the growth patterns can vary: some can regress without any treatment, others can continue to grow and progress over time.

 

Different types of fibroadenomas

 

Simple fibroadenoma:

Most of them are about 1–3cm in size. When looked at under a microscope, simple fibroadenomas will appear the same all over. Simple fibroadenomas have no significant increase in the risk of the woman developing breast cancer in the future.

 

Complex fibroadenoma: 

When looked at under a microscope, they contain changes such as an overgrowth of cells (hyperplasia) and thus they can grow in size rapidly. Having a complex fibroadenoma means the woman can have a very slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

 

Giant fibroadenoma:

Occasionally, it can grow to more than 5cm in size and this is called a giant fibroadenoma. They need to be removed because they can press on or replace other breast tissues and can deform the breasts.

 

How to diagnose the fibroadenomas?

 

Women with the above symptoms should thoroughly take a medical assessment. If the doctor finds any lumps in the breasts, radiological examinations such as a mammogram and / or an ultrasound scan of the breasts will be necessary. A pathological examination by means of fine needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy is performed if there are concerns about the nature of the lumps.

 

 

Is regular follow-up necessary for fibroadenomas?

 

It is important for women with fibroadenomas to have regular breast examinations requested by doctor. These assessments serve to make sure the fibroadenomas are not growing. For women who have had excision of a fibroadenoma, it is also necessary for them to undergo regular breast examinations because sometimes one or more new fibroadenomas can appear again.

 

*The above information is for reference only, please consult your doctor for detail.