SGD (BREAST)

 Fibroadenoma of the Breast is a benign, non-cancerous tumor that forms in the

breast. Typically the size of a marble, they are characterized by its firm and smooth
shape, as well as their rubbery feel
 Fibroadenomas consist of breast gland tissue and stromal, connective tissue. Believed
to form due to increased sensitivity to estrogen, most fibroadenomas move in the
breast with ease, and are painless

Who gets Fibroadenoma of the Breast? (Age and Sex Distribution)

 Typically, fibroadenomas do not develop into cancerous tumors and are thus,
harmless to the body. While they do not require treatment, if they get too large in
size or cause any discomfort, they may be surgically removed
 Fibroadenoma of the Breast most commonly occurs in adolescent girls and women,
under the age of 35 years. This may not be always the case, as fibroadenomas have
been seen in older women too
 A link has been found between the use of birth control pills and the development of
fibroadenomas. Women, who began using birth control pills, before the age of 20
years, have a higher risk of developing fibroadenomas

What are the Risk Factors for Fibroadenoma of the Breast?

(Predisposing Factors)
Common risk factors of Fibroadenoma of the Breast include:

 Estrogen therapy or other hormone therapies

 Pregnancy
 Breastfeeding
 Use of birth control pills

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition.
A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without
the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.
Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is
always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Fibroadenoma of the Breast? (Etiology)

 Currently, why fibroadenomas develop in the breast, is not well understood
  It is believed that fibroadenoma development is linked to reproductive hormone
levels, in the body. This is because the highest incidence of fibroadenoma occurrence
is typically during a woman’s reproductive years
 The fact that fibroadenomas grow in size during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and
shrink when menopause occurs, provides further evidence that links them to
reproductive hormone levels

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fibroadenoma of the

Breast?
Common signs and symptoms of Breast Fibroadenoma include:

 Solid lumps in breast that are painless, with characteristics that include smoothness,
roundness, easy travel within the breast, firmness, and having a rubbery feel
 Increased lump size, during pregnancy or in breastfeeding mothers
 Increased lump size, during hormone therapy