What is fibroadenoma?

Fibroadenomas are noncancerous breast lumps that are mostly found in women under the 35 years of age. A fibroadenoma are mostly solid, smooth, and hard. They have a well-defined shape and are normally painless. Fibroadenomas are like marbles and can move easily under your skin as they are quite moveable. They differ in size, and can expand or contract on their own. However, a few fibroadenomas are very small in size that they can’t even be felt.

What causes a fibroadenoma?

The most accurate cause of fibroadenomas is unknown. However, it is believed that hormones like estrogen might play a key role in the development of these tumors. Apart from it, use of oral contraceptives before 20 years of age has also been associated with a greater risk of developing these tumors. The tumors can develop, especially during pregnancy. However, during menopause, these tumors mostly shrink.

However, as per some reports it has been suggested that by avoiding foods and drinks that are stimulants, such as tea, coffee, chocolate, and soft drinks; the symptoms of this in some women have improved. Nevertheless, there are no studies that have scientifically shown a connection between these stimulants and improving breast symptoms.

What are the various symptoms of Fibroadenomas?

Women can have one or several fibroadenomas in one or both breasts. These are firm breast lumps that generally:

• Are round with distinctive, flat edges
• Can move easily
• Mostly solid or rubbery
• Painless

How are fibroadenomas diagnosed?

A doctor can diagnose fibroadenomas by conducting a physical examination in which the doctor will examine the breasts manually. The doctor may also ask for a breast ultrasound or mammogram imaging test.

In a breast ultrasound, a handheld device known as a transducer is moved over the skin of the breast, which creates a picture on a screen while a mammogram is an X-ray of the breast taken by compressing the breast between two plane surfaces.

Additionally, doctors can perform a fine needle aspiration or biopsy to remove tissue for testing. In this doctors insert a needle into the breast and eradicate small pieces of the tumor. This removed tissue will then be sent to a lab for microscopic examination to find out the type of fibroadenoma.

How is a fibroadenoma Rreated?

In the majority of cases, there is no need of any treatment for fibroadenomas. But, a few women opt for surgical removal for their satisfaction. However, you and your doctor can choose whether to remove it or not by analyzing your physical symptoms, family history, and individual concerns.

Nevertheless, the decision to have a fibroadenoma removed or not mainly depends on the following:

• if it affects the natural shape of the breast
• if it is painful
• if you’re alarmed about developing cancer
• if you have a family history of cancer
• if you receive doubtful biopsy results

It is a point to be noted that if a fibroadenoma is removed, there is a possibility that one or more tumors will grow in its place.