Q. What is fibroadenoma disease?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Fibroadenoma is a benign (noncancerous) breast tumor that typically occurs in young women. It can occur in either one or both breasts, and usually presents as an isolated, firm lump.
Fibroadenomas generally have smooth edges that can move within the breast tissue when you press on them. They are typically found near the surface of the breast, making them easy to identify during self-exams or normal clinical exams. Fibroadenomas most commonly appear between ages 20 and 30 but may also be present in teenagers and elderly women as well.
Fibroadenomas are caused by an overgrowth of cells in the fibrous connective tissues surrounding milk ducts and glandular tissues of the breasts due to hormonal changes during puberty or menopause. These tumors won't typically spread beyond its origin within the breast tissue though some may grow very large if left untreated for an extended period of time.
Fortunately, many fibroadenomas do not require treatment unless they become bothersome due to their size or location; however, it is still important to undergo regular examinations with your doctor so that any changes observed can be assessed quickly before any problems arise from growth or malignancy conversion (which is extremely rare).
If treatment is required for a problematic fibroadneoma it is usually done surgically by surgical excision which removes all visible tumors while preserving healthy tissue around it resulting in minimal scarring upon healing; post-surgery radiation therapy may also be recommended if necessary depending on cancer risk factors at play such as family history etc.). Other treatments available include cryotherapy (freezing), laser ablation (melt off), high-intensity ultrasound therapy known as HIFU, chemosurgery where chemicals are used to kill abnormal cells...etc.. In more extreme cases mastectomies might even be recommended depending on what type of disease(s) we are trying to treat/prevent from developing further down the line after surgery has been conducted.....etc....