Fibroadenoma

Need to know

• Symptoms of fibroadenoma icon plus

  The lumps are usually painless (although some people experience tenderness), feel smooth under the skin and move around easily.
  
  The different types of fibroadenoma are:
  

  • Simple fibroadenoma – the most common form, measuring 1-3cm in size. These do not increase your chances of developing breast cancer.
  • Complex fibroadenoma – a less common form that tends to occur in older women and may grow over time. These may slightly increase your chances of developing breast cancer.
  • Giant/juvenile fibroadenoma – larger lumps that grow larger than 5cm in size.

• Diagnosis icon plus

  While a fibroadenoma is harmless, it is always important to get any lump in the breasts checked out by a specialist.
  
  In order to diagnose fibroadenoma, your consultant may carry out one or more of the following tests:
  

  • A breast examination.
  • Breast X-ray (mammogram) – using a mammogram machine, your breast is gently pressed flat under a plastic plate to ensure a clear image is taken.
  • Ultrasound – a scan that uses sound waves to build up a picture of the inside of the breast with a small hand-held sensor which is pressed against the skin.
  • Biopsy or fine needle aspiration – inserting a needle into the breast to remove tissue for testing.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Many fibroadenomas do not require surgery, but sometimes an excision biopsy is needed. This procedure removes large, complex or juvenile fibroadenomas.
  
  The surgery can involve:
  

  • Local or general anaesthetic – your consultant will discuss the options so you are fully prepared.
  • Dissolvable stitches may be used under the skin - these won’t need to be removed afterwards. If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they will be taken out a few days after surgery.
  • Another type of treatment available to remove the lump is vacuum-assisted excision biopsy. With this option, the lump will be removed without surgery under local anaesthetic.