Cysts that form in the breast appear in some people as very small structures called microcysts. In some people, they can be large enough to be detected by physical examination. These cysts are called macrocysts.
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What Is a Breast Cyst?
They are fluid-filled sacs in the breast originating from the milk ducts in the breast. Fibrocystic breast tissue is seen in 65% of women in the population. Breast cysts generally do not become cancerous and are not considered precancerous lesions. Cysts that form in the breast result from fluid accumulation and may form due to fluctuations in hormone levels in the body. The exact cause of these cysts is not fully known. These cysts, which are mostly seen in women in their 40s, can also be seen in men.
Causes of Breast Cysts
It is more common especially in women under the age of 50 before menopause. Sometimes it is seen together with nipple discharge and pain complaints. During the menstrual period, there may be an increase or decrease in growth and pain. Generally, there are findings of breast tenderness and pain, swellings that give a feeling of fluctuation in the breast, and coarsened breast tissue. It is quite rare to be seen after menopause, but it can be seen in women receiving hormone therapy after menopause.
Among the treatment options, there are medical and surgical options. These masses should be investigated and treated by specialist physicians.
Symptoms of Breast Cysts
Among the most obvious symptoms of breast cysts are palpable tissues. These cysts can cause intense pain. In the premenstrual period, pain and increased edema increase, and after menstruation these conditions can return to normal. In some women, pain sensations continue independently of the menstrual period. Breast cysts may also be painless, but they can cause discomfort by putting pressure on surrounding tissues. Nipple discharge and tenderness are also among the symptoms.
Differences Between a Breast Cyst and a Mass
Masses are lumps that can be seen anywhere in the body, including the breast and surrounding area, and can consist of different tissues. Cysts are small lumps or sacs containing fluid or semi-solid tissue. Not every mass seen in the breast is a cyst. Masses seen in the breast can also be a benign tumor, breast cancer, a fatty lump, or an abscess.
What Are the Types of Breast Cysts?
The structure of the cyst wall is important in evaluation. If the cyst wall is regular, oval, or round, it is called a simple cyst. Generally, it is benign, and the definitive diagnosis is made by breast ultrasonography. The contents of large cysts can be drained with a needle for treatment purposes. In cases of complex cysts and suspicious situations, a needle biopsy may be required.
How Is a Breast Cyst Diagnosed?
To diagnose a cyst in the breast, a breast ultrasound or mammography examination may be performed If imaging methods are not considered sufficient, fine needle aspiration or a breast biopsy may be performed. In most cases, both small and large cysts can be detected thanks to mammography. Small cysts called microcysts may be difficult to diagnose with mammography. With chest ultrasound, it is understood what is in the lump in the chest. It is determined whether there is fluid in the lump and whether it is solid.
What Is the Treatment for a Breast Cyst?
Which method will be applied for the treatment of an existing cyst in the breast is evaluated according to the condition of the cyst and its progression. It is known that most cysts disappear on their own without the need for treatment. If the cyst does not shrink or disappear, treatment must be applied. The fluid inside the cyst can be removed with fine needle aspiration. The use of birth control pills is also an option for cysts. Although not preferred much, surgical intervention is also applied for some cysts.
Do Breast Cysts Cause Cancer?
Cysts seen in the breast are evaluated as simple breast cysts found in the breast and these cysts are benign lesions. These cysts do not turn into breast cancer, but they need to be monitored.
