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Programs & Services

CIBC Breast Centre

Benign Breast Diseases: Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenoma is a common and benign condition consisting of one or more discrete, mobile breast lumps. It is the most common cause of a breast lump in women between the ages of 20 and 30.

The condition is an aberration of the normal process of lobule development and involution rather than a true tumour. Fibroadenomas are discrete, mobile, usually non-tender, rounded or lobulated and have a firm rubbery texture. They may occur anywhere in the breast, single or multiple, in one breast or occasionally bilateral. They may grow slowly, stabilize or regress with age or menopause.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis in most cases is based on clinical breast examination. Tests can distinguish fibroadenoma from other causes of breast lumps. These may include ultrasound, mammography, fine needle aspiration biopsy or core biopsy. Breast self-examination is also an important skill to acquire.

Treatment

Treatment of fibroadenoma varies between observation and excision.

Risk of Breast Cancer

The overwhelming majority of fibroadenomas are benign.