Fibrocystic Breast Condition

In the past, both Fibrocystic Breast Condition  (FBC) and Fibrocystic Breast Disease have been referred to as the same thing. However, medical practitioners are now dropping the word disease from the diagnosis and replacing it with condition.

This common condition is characterized by nonmalignant lumps in the breast. The lumps can sometimes cause pain and tenderness in one or both breast and primarily affects more than 60% of women from the ages of 30-50; usually becoming less of a problem after menopause. Some women experience this condition as early as the onset of puberty.

The causes of FBC are generally unknown, but can be linked to estrogen levels and other hormones produced by the ovaries. As well as possible dietary fat intake.

FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Lumps in one or both breast.
• Lumps offer resistance when pressed with fingertips; may be tender.
• Generalized breast pain, especially right before menstrual periods.
• Lumps are often larger before menstrual periods and shrink afterwords.
• Lumps come in different sizes. Surface level lumps can be moved freely within the breast.
• Lumps deep within the breast may be indistinguishable from breast cancer.
• Nipple discharge

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Examine breast carefully each month prior to or at the onset of menstruation.
• Routine mammogram studies.
• Until research is concluded avoid smoking and high caffeine consumption.
• Avoid fatty and fried foods; reduce salt intake.

TREATMENT

• Diagnostic tests include mammogram, ultrasonograph (useful for distinguishing cystic from solid lesion) and surgical diagnostic procedures such as biopsy or cyst aspiration.
• Examine breast monthly (as preventive measures states) and report changes in lumps that have been previously diagnosed.
• Visit the doctor every year for a breast exam. If you have a family history of cancer, more frequent examinations may be required.
• Cold compressions may be helpful for discomfort or pain.
• Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra (day and night).
• Sometimes, excision of benign tumors or fat necrosis lesions is recommended.

MEDICATIONS

• Doctor's may prescribe spironolactone and suggest vitamin B-6 or iodine (kelp tablets).
• A mild diuretic for 7-10 days before menses may help some patients (for natural diuretics consult with your physician for approval and locate your local health food store for advice on brands).
• For more severe symptoms, danazol or bromocriptine may be prescribed.
• There is some evidence that vitamin E may be beneficial.

NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR'S OFFICE IF

• You have undiagnosed lumps in your breast.
• You detect a change in a lump, or new lumps appear.
• Nipple discharge appears.
• You have not had a breast exam in 2-years.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop in your breast.