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The commonest presentations of a breast cancer in decreasing order of frequency are:
- Breast lump
- Bloody nipple discharge
- Skin changes
- Itchy rash of the nipple
- Breast pain
Are all breast lumps cancerous?
The answer is no. In fact 8 out of 10 breast lumps are benign or non cancerous. The type of breast lump depends on the woman’s age.
Twenties
The commonest type of breast lump in this age group is a fibroadenoma. It also known as a breast mouse as it is mobile i.e. it can be moved within the breast. This lump is non cancerous.
Thirties
The commonest type of lump in this age group is known as fibroadenosis or fibrocystic disease. It is often a painful hard area in the outer guardant of the breast and is associated with the female sex hormone, oestrogen. It is non cancerous.
Forties and beyond
Two types of breast lumps are common in older women. One is a breast cyst which is a lump filled with fluid. Breast cyst can be diagnosed by an ultrasound scan and is treated by needle puncture to extract the fluid.
Breast cancer is the other type of breast lump to consider in older women. This lump is usually hard irregular and fixed inside the breast. Changes of skin over the cancer may be seen (thickening, redness depression, skin sore).
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