Breast lumps

Definition

A breast lump is a growth that forms within the breast. Different types of breast lumps can vary in the way they look and feel.

You might notice:

• A distinct lump with clear-cut edges.
• A firm or hard area within the breast.
• A thicker, slightly raised area in the breast that's different from the tissue around it.

You also might see these changes along with a lump:

• An area of skin that has changed in color or turned red or pink.
• Dimpling of the skin.
• Pitting of the skin, which may look like an orange peel in texture.
• A change in the size of one breast that makes it larger than the other breast.
• Nipple changes, such as a nipple that turns inward or releases fluid.
• Lasting breast pain or tenderness, which is in one area or may go on after your period.

A breast lump can be a sign of breast cancer. That's why you should get it checked by your health care provider as soon as you can. It's even more important to get a breast lump checked after menopause. The upside is that most breast lumps are benign. That means they are not caused by cancer.

Causes

Breast lumps can be caused by:

• Breast cancer
• Breast cysts (which are fluid-filled sacs in breast tissue that are not cancer. The fluid in a cyst looks like water. An imaging test called ultrasound is used to find out if a breast lump is a cyst.)
• Fibroadenoma (a solid, benign growth within the breast glands. It is a common type of breast lump.)
• Fibrocystic breasts
• Intraductal papilloma.
• Lipoma (a slow-growing lump involving fatty breast tissue. It can feel doughy, and it is often harmless.)
• Trauma to the breast from a bump, breast surgery or other reasons.

Breast lumps also can be caused by health problems that can happen during breastfeeding, such as:

• Mastitis (an infection in breast tissue)
• A milk-filled cyst that's usually harmless.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment to have a breast lump checked, especially if:

• The lump is new and feels firm or fixed.
• The lump doesn't go away after 4 to 6 weeks. Or it has changed in size or in how it feels.
• You notice skin changes on your breast such as crusting, dimpling, puckering, or a change in color, including red and pink.
• Fluid comes out of the nipple. It might be bloody.
• The nipple recently turned inward.
• There is a new lump in the armpit, or a lump in the armpit seems to be getting bigger.