Does a painful swelling in the breast unreactive to medication indicate cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I detected a mass in my left breast. So, I had a mammogram, and the reports are attached.

I took antibiotics and antiinflammatory agents for weeks, but no change occurred as the pain in my left breast and swelling under my arm worsened. Could it be cancerous, as I have a family history of cancer? Kindly suggest some medications.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I have reviewed your reports (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity).

As per your USG (ultrasonography) breast report, you likely have some benign cysts. Unlikely to be cancer if the report is to be believed, but still visit an oncologist for examination. A larger breast cyst should be aspirated and then followed up with USG.

A small swelling from the femur bone also needs to be looked into. Usually, minor surgery is required.

Your TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is low. If you are on thyroid medications, do get the dose adjusted.

The right ovary has a cyst, and I would recommend an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) pelvis to be further sure.

None of the investigations show any definite cancer. But given the family history, you need to be cautious.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As per your USG (ultrasound) report (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), both are cysts. So get them aspirated. Such an aspirate should be sent for cytological examination as well. Pain will also benefit from aspiration.

Thank you.