What does the increase in breast mass size suggest?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a question about a follow-up breast ultrasound.

Why would something increase from 0.2 inches to 0.28 inches in the breast when there was no concern six months ago, but now they want to biopsy it?
What is a retroareolar mass that grew from 5 mm to 7 mm?

Please provide guidance on these concerns.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

A retroareolar mass in the breast that has grown from 5 mm to 7 mm can have several differential diagnoses (DD), including both benign and malignant conditions. Some possibilities include:

1. Fibroadenoma: A benign condition common in younger women.

2. Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can fluctuate in size.

3. Intraductal Papilloma: A small, benign tumor that grows within the breast ducts, often near the areola, and can cause nipple discharge.

4. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): A non-invasive breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts and has the potential to become invasive if left untreated.

5. Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts and invades surrounding tissue. It is less likely to occur without massive symptomatology.

6. Fat necrosis: A benign condition resulting from injury to the breast tissue, leading to a firm lump.

7. Mastitis abscess: Infection of the breast tissue, often associated with breastfeeding, leading to a painful lump.

Further evaluation with possibly a biopsy is necessary to determine the nature of the mass and guide appropriate management. I would advise you to have a biopsy for a tissue diagnosis.

I hope this guidance helps you. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.