I'm 46 and had a core biopsy for a large breast lump. the diagnosis was fibroadenoma. will it ever turn malignant?

NO: Generally fibroadenomas are benign tumors that predcominantly occur in younger females of childbearing age. In and of themselves, they do not transform into malignant lesions. This is determined by other factors such as family history, genetic testing, calcfications, cellular atypia, etc. That will be a part of a complete hsitory and physical examination, .

Possibly: Fibroadenomas can become cancerous but it is not very common. I frequently watch them once a diagnosis has been made. Only take it out if it causes problems.

No: I would leave alone, unless > 3 cm size. Distinguishing a fibroadenoma vs a phyllodes tumor can sometimes be difficult w a core biopsy. Although malignancy is rare, if the mass grows or is large (> 3 cm), i would remove.

Very rarely: Although fibroadenomas are benign, very rarely malignancies can arise within a fibroadenoma. If yours was to start growing or changing significantly in some way over time, it may be worthwhile having it removed.

They are: benign, and they are routinely not removed once the diagnosis is made on core biopsy. They are very rarely associated with a cancer. Rapid growth would be an indication for excision.