QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
fibrocystic breast change is a common non-cancerous condition that does not increase the risk of cancer. The changes include fibrosis, epithelial hyperplasia, dilation of ducts and apocrine metaplasia.

It is thought to arise from excessive local hormonal stimulation of the terminal duct-lobular unit. Therefore, pain can increase before menstruation.

This mainly affects premenopausal women between the ages of 20-50 years of age.
10005991
a
It is benign with no increased risk of malignancy
QuestionChoice
It is a benign, common condition in premenopausal women that does not increase the risk of malignancy.
10005992
b
It is benign but has an increased risk of malignancy
QuestionChoice
Fibrocystic change is a benign condition it does not require any treatment.
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c
Is a malignant diagnosis
QuestionChoice
Mastitis can be caused by infection and mainly affects breastfeeding women. The breast will likely be tender, red and sore and is more of an acute presentation.

There are no skin changes that may indicate an infection and the patient is systemically well.
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d
Is caused by an infection
QuestionChoice
This is not always the case in those with fibrocystic changes.

Symptoms tend to be hormonal-driven and cyclical and can fluctuate with time.

After menopause, the lumps can become less noticable and even disappear completely.
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e
Grows and symptoms become worse with time
Concept
Chapter
2693
4465
Fibrocystic disease of the Breast
Topic
151
Breast Disease
13745
30 year old female presents to the GP concerned she has felt some lumps on her left breast in the left upper quadrant over a year ago. She also describes the area of the breast becoming more tender just before she is due to start her period.

The GP examines the patient and observes tht there are no skin changes but some three small lumps measuring around 2cm in the upper quadrant of the left breast which are smooth and fluctuant.

She is referred to breast clinic where an ultrasound and an ultrasound-guided biopsy are performed.

These investigations lead to a diagnosis of fibrocystic breast changes.

She is really concerned with this diagnosis and wants to know more about it.

Which of these options is correct about this condition?
a