BENIGN AND PREMALIGNANT BREAST DISEASE
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Date
2013-12-09
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Abstract
Benign Breast disease is one of the common diseases mainly affecting women. It includes a wide spectrum of disorders, some of which have malignant potential. It is therefore important to diagnose and manage these diseases appropriately.
Breast Disease is assessed using the triple assessment. This includes clinical and radiological assessment, as well as biopsy for histological confirmation. Breast pain, lumps and nipple discharge are the most common features of benign breast disease. A thorough examination is useful in distinguishing benign from malignant breast disease. Radiological assessment involves the use of mammography and ultrasonography commonly. Core biopsies are usually preferable for obtaining tissue for histological diagnosis. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology, incision and excision biopsies may however be indicated in specific situations.
Treatment options depend on the specific disease and may be surgical or non surgical. Common benign breast diseases include fibrocystic changes and fibroadenoma in females and gynaecomastia in males.
Premalignant breast disease, most commonly Ductal Carcinoma In Situ, has become more common with increase in screening procedures. It carries a higher risk of invasive disease as compared to the benign breast diseases. It should therefore be treated appropriately to prevent development of invasive carcinoma.