Fibrocystic breast disease, also known as fibrocystic changes or fibrocystic breast condition, is a common benign (non-cancerous) condition that affects the breasts. It is characterized by the presence of various lumps, cysts, and changes in breast tissue texture, mainly occurring in the glandular tissue of the breasts.
Women with fibrocystic breast disease often experience breast pain or tenderness, as well as swelling or thickening of the breast tissue. These symptoms may worsen before or during menstruation and tend to improve after the menstrual period. Fibrocystic changes may also cause nipple discharge or localized breast lumps that may be movable or change in size over time.
The exact cause of fibrocystic breast disease is not well understood, but hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, particularly high levels of estrogen, are believed to contribute to its development. Other factors such as genetics, diet, caffeine consumption, and certain medications may also play a role.
While fibrocystic breast disease is not directly associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, having the condition can sometimes make it more challenging for healthcare providers to detect cancerous lumps through physical examination or mammography. Therefore, it is essential for individuals with fibrocystic breast disease to adhere to regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams, and screening mammograms as recommended by their healthcare providers.
In summary, fibrocystic breast disease refers to a non-cancerous condition characterized by breast pain, lumps, cysts, and changes in breast tissue, most commonly associated with hormonal fluctuations.
