Locations
Advanced Practice Providers
Contact & Important Links
Medical Oncology
Radiation Oncology
Breast Health & Surgery
Patient Education
Patient Forms
Benign Breast
Conditions
There are different types of benign breast conditions that can affect the breast. Some require treatment and others will go away on their own.
While most benign breast conditions aren’t life-threatening, some types can increase the risk of developing breast cancer and may require follow-up tests or exams.
How do I know if what I’m feeling is normal?
The first step is to follow up with a trained healthcare provider. This can be a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. After a physical examination, they can determine which type of breast imaging is needed.
Mammograms, which remain the gold standard screening technique, are effective in detecting breast cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable and most curable. Today both 2D and 3D imaging are used. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are utilized in high-risk screening and in further evaluation of a known issue.
Ultrasound helps to determine if a mass is solid or liquid, and MRI allows for a more thorough comprehensive view. This additional imaging is important to determine whether the area in question is a cyst or fibroadenoma. Fluid-filled areas are typically seen with cysts, while masses that appear solid can be an indication of fibroadenoma or breast cancer.
For most people, their breasts are not uniform in texture, and often have a “lumpy, bumpy” feel. This is due to the different types of tissue in the breast like the ductal-lobular (milk production) components, the stroma, the fibrous tissue that forms the structural component which supports the breast, and adipose (fat) tissue.
Helpful Resources:
National Cancer Institute
American Cancer Society
Connect With Us
Important Links
Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists is accredited by the ACR for imaging services.
Locations
Contact Us
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 911.
If you are a current patient or their authorized representative, questions or concerns regarding care should be directed to our offices by phone.
If you are a new patient requesting an appointment with one of our providers, please call 800-201-7220.
Calls are answered 24-7.