What is fibroadenoma?

Benign Breast Tumor: Fibroadenomas are the most common benign breast tumor. They have a tendency to grow in response to high estrogen levels as seen in puberty and pregnancy. They have a characteristic appearance on ultrasound but can be confused with cancers and are often biopsied by nonsurgical means to establish diagnosis. They do not need to be removed but some women opt for this due to pain or cosmetic concerns.

Fibroadenoma: A fibroadenoma [fa] is a benign breast tumor originating from the supportive tissue of the breast not the milk ducts or milk producing cells. They are: completely benign with no malignant potential; most common in women of childbearing age; often sensitive to hormones and can grow in response to them such as puberty & pregnancy; and will involute or shrink with menopause; continued:.

Continued: Can grow with postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Most common complaint is a lump or painful lump. Treatment is indicated if the fa is growing, larger than about 2cm, painful. Treatment could be removal with a percutaneous biopsy device if very small, cryoablation [freezing in the breast] or surgical removal. Often they are just followed for growth.