Mammary disorders and cancer
Author: Ann Brown
Studies show that breast disease that causes symptoms does not increase the risk of breast cancer. Atypical hyperplasia characterized by impairment of mammary cells may increase the risk of malignancies (cancer).
Signs and symptoms
Frequently observed:
1. Swelling or tenderness that occur just before your menstrual period
2. Persistent breast pain (mastalgia, noncyclic)
3. Severe pain before their menstrual period (cyclic mastalgia)
4. Bumps notables (nodularity – appearance of small ball-)
5. Mammary secretion
6. Infection or inflammation
Most women with symptoms of benign breast disease do not have breast cancer. However, the existence of breast lumps, discharge, or persistent pain is not cyclical and can be the first sign of cancer. If you have any of them, your doctor will examine your breasts and is likely to ask for a mammogram or an ultrasound, and perhaps a biopsy, to ensure that the disorder is benign.