Lumps in the mammary glands: causes, diagnosis and treatment
Lumps in a woman's breasts can be a sign of various diseases and conditions, from cysts and fibroadenomas to breast cancer. However, not all lumps are dangerous or require treatment. In this article we will look at the causes of lumps in the mammary glands, methods of diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of lumps in the mammary glands
Breast lumps can be caused by a variety of reasons, including hormonal changes, injury, infection, and disease. Some of the most common causes of lumps include:
Cysts. Breast cysts are one of the most common causes of lumps. They are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the breast tissue. Cysts are usually not dangerous and do not require treatment, but in some cases they can cause discomfort or pain.
Fibroadenomas. Fibroadenomas are benign breast tumors that are usually found in young women. They are firm nodes that are usually painless and can easily move within the breast.
Mastopathy. Mastopathy is a condition in which many lumps form in the breasts caused by hormonal changes. It can manifest itself as soreness and discomfort, especially before menstruation.
Mammary cancer. Breast cancer is a dangerous disease that can appear as lumps in the breast. Breast cancer usually doesn't cause pain in its early stages, so it's important to have regular screenings to catch it early.
Diagnosis of lumps in the mammary glands
Various methods may be used to diagnose breast lumps, including:
Clinical examination. Your doctor may palpate your breasts to look for lumps, changes in the shape and size of the breasts, and other signs of disease.
Mammography. Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breasts that can detect the presence of tumors and other changes in breast tissue.
Ultrasonography. An ultrasound may be used to look at breast lumps in more detail, especially in women with dense breast tissue or breasts.
Biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure in which a tissue sample is removed from the lump for further analysis under a microscope. This allows you to determine whether the lump is benign or malignant.
Treatment of lumps in the mammary glands
Treatment for breast lumps depends on the cause and severity of the disease. In most cases, lumps do not require treatment if they are benign and do not cause discomfort or pain. If the lumps cause discomfort or pain, the following treatment methods may be used:
Medications. Depending on the cause of the lumps, various medications may be used, such as hormonal agents, anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.
Surgical intervention. If the lump is a tumor or other disease, surgery may be required to remove it.
Regular examination. Regular screening by your doctor and mammograms can help identify and treat breast lumps in their early stages.
Overall, if you have breast lumps, it is important to see your doctor for diagnosis and to determine if treatment is needed. In most cases, lumps are benign and do not require treatment, but in some cases they can be a sign of a dangerous disease, so regular examination is important to maintain breast health.