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    What You Need to Know About Breast Lumps

    Breast lumps can indicate many things, and can cause worry and fear that may be unfounded. Here is a list of some of the things you should know about breast lumps:

    1. Lumpiness in breasts is natural, as your breast tissue may simply have a lumpier characteristic. However, lumps that are harder or firmer or have noticeably changed should be checked.
    2. Do not panic. Breast lumps may signify many things, from benign breast conditions, infections, injuries, menstrual-related lumps, up to more serious issues such as cancer.
    3. Benign conditions include hyperplasia, cysts, fibroadenomas, intraductal papilloma, scrlerosing adenosis, and scars. See the Susan G. Komen site for details on these conditions at http://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/BenignConditions.html
    4. Benign lumps can mimic symptoms of breast cancer by causing pain or discomfort. In this case, a provider may require tests (including a biopsy) for diagnosis.
    5. Some benign conditions do increase risk of breast cancer, and your physician will be able to help you understand those risks.
    6. Breast cancer-related lumps usually cause no pain. However, breast cancer symptoms can include swelling, redness, warm spots, dimpling, unusual puckering, itchy sores or rashes, unusual discharge, etc. In the case of these symptoms, time is of the essence and you should see your physician right away.

    As always, your physicians is your first stop to get the answers you need about breast lumps. If you are concerned, don’t wait — make an appointment today. We’ll be here to work with your doctor to image your breasts and provide a comprehensive report to them in a timely manner.

    Our UltimateMamm® provides a comprehensive report for you and your physician that includes your breast density, Tyrer-Cuzick and hereditary risk score.