Breast cancer: all tumours are cancerous?

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Extract from the article: When a lump is felt in the chest, it usually causes a panic wind. Women are used to automatically associate it with breast cancer. Yet there are many tumours that are not cancerous.

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When a lump is felt in the chest, it usually causes a panic wind. Women are used to automatically associate it with breast cancer. Yet there are many tumours that are not cancerous.

Four major breast tumours may appear without causing breast cancer. The important thing is to be attentive and go see a health professional.

Adenofibromes, the most common benign tumours

Also called fibroadenoma, adenofibroma is a benign breast tumour that is particularly common in young women. This benign mass is composed of fibrous and glandular tissues that grow from the mammary gland. It is between 1 and 15 cm in size, but usually about an inch or 2 to 3 centimetres. It can be located in all areas of the breast and has a smooth, firm appearance. These characteristics make it easily identifiable. It does not cause pain but can be sensitive during menstruation.

In young women, it is enough to monitor it unless they grow very quickly, in which case you have to go see a specialist. For the moment, the causes of adenofibroma are unknown but most professionals believe that they are due to increased sensitivity to estrogen.

Cysts, bulges of variable size

Cysts are one of the main causes of breast lumps. They occur primarily in women aged 30 to 60. It is possible to have more than one cyst at the same time in both breasts. A peak of stress in anxious women can cause them to appear. The doctor usually refers the patient to a specialized clinic for diagnosis. At this time, no known link between cysts and a risk of developing breast cancer has been shown.

A cyst is a lump filled with fluid. Its size varies from that of a nail to several centimeters. This can change with menstruation. Because of their liquid composition, they are smooth, round and can move under the skin if pressure is applied. Some people associate it with grapes. The areas around the cyst can be sensitive and painful. The causes of breast cysts are not well known.

Abscesses, common in pregnant women

A breast abscess is common in pregnant women. It is the result of an accumulation of pus in the breast. It can develop as a result of bacterial infection by a cracked nipple or breastfeeding when the milk ducts are clogged. They are not characterized by inflated reddish bumps. They may also cause swelling in the infected area and fever. See a doctor.

Lipoma, a ball of fat without complications

A lipoma is more aesthetically annoying than it causes complications. This benign tumour affects especially women between 40 and 60 years. It is a soft ball. The fat inside is the same as under the skin. Its size varies but is in 80% of cases less than 5 cm. It can be found anywhere in the body. We can even have several. Don’t hesitate to see a doctor.

Jean ELI