Definition

Fibrocystic breasts are benign lumps in the breasts that are common among women. Symptoms of fibrocystic breasts vary, starting from pain or discomfort in the breasts to the presence of lumps that feel elastic and can move. When the breast lumps are not indicative of cancer or malignancy, treatment is not required.

Causes

The exact cause of fibrocystic breast changes is still unknown. However, scientists believe that these changes are related to female reproductive hormones, especially estrogen. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstruation, can cause the breasts to feel more painful and swollen.

Risk Factor

Several risk factors for fibrocystic breast changes include:

• Age 20 to 50 years
• Family history of breast lumps
• Unhealthy lifestyle
• Lack of rest
• Alcohol consumption, especially in women aged 18 to 22 years
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Smoking

Symptoms

Symptoms of fibrocystic breast changes include:

• Swelling in the breasts
• Breast pain, both when touched and when not touched
• Thickening of the breast tissue
• Lumps in one or both breasts
• Lumps of varying sizes
• Lumps that can usually be moved
• Pain in the armpit area

Additionally, lumps may be larger in one breast compared to the other. Symptoms are more pronounced a few days before the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes. In lumps with a lot of dense tissue, the lumps may be difficult to move and adhere to a specific location.

Diagnosis

To determine whether a patient has fibrocystic breast changes, the doctor will conduct several examination steps, including history taking, physical examination, and supporting examinations to help establish the diagnosis.

History taking starts with asking about the patient's main complaints, accompanying complaints, menstrual history, daily activities and lifestyle, dietary habits, past medical history, medication history, and family history, especially if there is a history of breast lumps and cancer in the family.

Next, the doctor will conduct a physical examination, including vital signs and a breast examination. The breast examination includes observing the shape of the breasts, visible lumps, skin texture changes, nipple shape changes, and any discharge from the nipple. The doctor will then palpate the breast to check if the lumps are hard, soft, movable, and consistent. All examinations are conducted with the patient's consent to ensure a proper diagnosis.

The doctor will also perform supporting examinations, such as:

• Radiological examinations, including ultrasonography (USG) and mammography. USG is performed for women under 30 years old because their breast tissue is denser. Mammography is done for women over 30 years.
• Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). This involves taking a small sample of breast tissue with a fine needle for microscopic examination.
• Biopsy. This is done if radiological examination or FNAB suggests the presence of malignant or cancerous cells.

Management

The management of fibrocystic breast changes varies. If there are no symptoms or the symptoms are mild, the following home management steps can be taken:

• Wear a bra that fits the breast size, made from absorbent material and not too tight.
• Eat a low-fat diet.
• Reduce fast food intake and increase vegetable and fruit consumption.
• Limit caffeine and smoking.
• Use warm compresses to help reduce pain.
• Use pain relievers to help reduce discomfort.

If symptoms are severe and disruptive, the doctor may consider the use of birth control pills and hormone therapy to regulate hormone levels in the body. Surgery may also be considered if necessary.

Complications

Fibrocystic breast changes rarely cause complications, as most cases are mild and do not require specific treatment. However, if the condition does not resolve and lumps continue to appear outside the menstrual cycle, other conditions such as breast abscess, infection, phyllodes tumor, or breast cancer should be considered, with thorough examination needed.

Prevention

Preventive measures for fibrocystic breast changes include:

• Regular physical activity and exercise
• Reducing excessive caffeine intake
• Reducing excessive salt intake
• Reducing excessive fat intake
• Increasing balanced diet intake rich in fruits and vegetables
• Avoiding too much fried and fast food
• Getting adequate rest, with 7-8 hours of sleep per day
• Not taking medications or herbal supplements without consulting a doctor
• Performing Breast Self-Examination (BSE). Do this once a month to detect any changes in the breasts. BSE can be done in front of a mirror, while bathing, or lying down by observing and feeling the breasts.

When to See a Doctor?

Most cases of fibrocystic breast changes involve benign lumps that do not require specific treatment. However, you are advised to see a doctor if you experience multiple lumps, skin texture changes on the breasts, persistent and worsening breast pain, lumps that enlarge and do not shrink even after the menstrual cycle, or if there is blood or discharge from the nipple.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!