You may detect a lump or mass. Many benign (non-cancerous) conditions can cause lumps to appear in the breasts or chest. It’s normal to worry and think the worst. So what should you do if you find a change in your breasts or chest that looks like a sign of cancer?
Is it normal to feel a lump in the breast?
The breast is composed of different tissues. There are milk-producing lobules, milk ducts and fat cells. So it’s not easy to distinguish between normal tissue, a benign lump and a suspicious mass.
Changes to the breasts may occur during the menstrual cycle. You may notice a fluctuation in breast size or tenderness.
Some people can even feel small “balls” after ovulating. These variations are hormonal and can cause a change in the size of the mammary glands. It is normal and can occur from puberty to menopause.
That is why regular observation of the breasts/chest is recommended. The aim is to learn to distinguish between:
- Normal appearance of the breasts or chest;
- Recurrent, temporary changes that can be explained (for example, those linked to the menstrual cycle);
- New, persistent changes that cannot be explained.
What are the possible causes of a lump in the breast?
A lump in the breast tissue is a possible sign of breast cancer. However, there are other non-cancerous causes, such as fibroadenomas, cysts or other types of benign tumour.
In around 80% of cases, a breast lump is benign. However, if there is any doubt, or an unusual or persistent change, it is important to consult a doctor to find the cause.
Who to consult in the event of a worrying sign?
You should consult your family doctor if you notice a lump or any other unusual sign when looking at your breasts or chest. If you don’t have a family doctor, you can call Info-Santé at 811 to find out about walk-in clinics in your area.
How is a breast lump diagnosed?
The first step in the process is to consult a doctor for a clinical breast examination. This meticulous examination consists of observing the shape of the breast, the appearance of the skin and the nipple.
The doctor will feel each breast, the nipples and the armpits. They may also ask questions, particularly about personal and family history and lifestyle habits. This will help assess the level of personal risk.
If the doctor finds a suspicious mass or sign, they may prescribe screening tests. You will be encouraged to have a mammogram and/or an breast ultrasound.
A mammogram is an x-ray of the chest/breasts to detect lumps or suspicious areas. Ultrasound can determine whether the mass is liquid or solid. It can also be used if the breast tissue is dense.
Following the mammogram or ultrasound, the doctor may deem it necessary to perform a biopsy. This examination involves removing cells from the suspected area for analysis under a microscope. The biopsy is used to confirm the cancer diagnosis. NB: Même commentaire
However, just because you are prescribed a biopsy or ultrasound does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer.
What to do while waiting for the results?
It can take a long time to obtain the results of medical examinations, so it is normal to be concerned. If you have any doubts about breast cancer or are waiting for a diagnosis, don’t hesitate to call the helpline staffed by the Foundation’s trained peer supporters: 1 855 561-ROSE (7673).
And if the biopsy confirms a diagnosis of cancer?
If a diagnosis of breast cancer is confirmed, further tests will be required. These will confirm the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the best method of treatment. You will be looked after by a healthcare team that will explain the treatment procedure to you.
The Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation is here to help. Don’t hesitate to consult our free services for people with breast cancer and their loved ones, at rubanrose.org or to call us at 1 855 561-ROSE for help and support.
References
Daly and Puckett. New Breast Mass. Stats Pearls. NCBI Bookshelf. Available at New Breast Mass – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov).
Stanley. Breast Changes During the Menstrual Cycle (health.com). Medically reviewed by Renita White, MD. Updated on August 6, 2023. Consulted on June 25, 2024.
Atashgaran V et al. Dissecting the Biology of Menstrual Cycle-Associated Breast Cancer Risk. Front Oncol. 2016 Dec 26;6:267. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2016.00267. PMID: 28083513; PMCID: PMC5183603.