Depending on the underlying cause, the way breast lumps look or feel can vary. Some breast lumps may also cause other symptoms.
Types of breast lumps
Common types of breast lumps include:
- fibroadenosis
- fibroadenoma
- breast cysts
- breast abscesses
These types of breast lumps and their symptoms are explained below.
Fibroadenosis
Fibrocystic breast disease, also known as fibroadenosis, is a term used to describe a group of benign (non-cancerous) conditions that affect the breast. The symptoms of fibroadenosis include:
- breast pain (mastalgia)
- breast enlargement
- lumpiness of the breast (nodularity), particularly just before or during a period
Fibroadenosis can develop in one or both breasts, or can affect just part of one breast. The symptoms can also vary significantly between women, with some women finding them slightly annoying and others finding them very painful. The pain and lumpiness will usually disappear after your period.
The cause of fibroadenosis is not well understood. However, it may be the result of the breast tissue responding abnormally to hormonal changes that occur with the menstrual cycle.
Fibroadenoma
A fibroadenoma is a smooth, well-rounded solid lump (tumour) that sometimes develops outside the milk ducts. Milk ducts are the tiny tubes in the breast that carry milk.
Fibroadenomas are made up of fibrous and glandular tissue, which has a rubber-like texture and moves easily when touched.
A fibroadenoma will sometimes disappear, but it can remain and grow larger, particularly during pregnancy.
Breast cyst
A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops within the breast tissue and may feel like a soft grape. Breast cysts are very common and normal. Cysts form as a natural part of the ageing of breast tissue and are most commonly found in women aged 35-50 years.
Cysts vary in size. Some can be very tiny, while others can grow up to several centimetres in diameter. Single or multiple cysts can occur in one or both breasts.
Cysts often do not cause any symptoms, although some women may experience pain, particularly if the cyst increases in size during the menstrual cycle. They do not significantly increase the risk of breast cancer developing.
Breast abscesses
A breast abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms under the skin of the breast. It can also cause:
- a high temperature (fever) of 38°C (100.4°F) or above
- inflammation (redness and swelling)
See the Health A-Z topic about Breast abscess for more information about this condition.
