Common breast growths that are not cancer are called benign tumors. They are usually found by women during their own breast self exam. These growths take many forms, some have fluid within and others are firm and solid. Infection may be found in some, while others have old, dead skin cells inside. The treatment depends on the growth and the cause.

Fluid filled tumors are more common and also painful. They are called cysts and abscesses. Cysts are caused by fibrocystic changes in women at any stage of life, or by pockets of milk in women who have recently stopped breast feeding. An ultrasound test may be needed. This test can tell if a lump is filled with fluid or solid. Cysts are usually drained with a needle for quick relief of pain and to prevent infection or abscess.

When a pocket of fluid, especially milk, is blocked from normal flow through the breast, infection and abscess form. These need to be treated with antibiotics and drained through the skin of the breast for full treatment. Some scarring of the breast may occur.

Solid, firm masses are usually painless. Most are called fibromas because of the amount of firm, fibrous cells in them. A mammogram and tissue sample are necessary to tell the difference between this harmless breast lump and breast cancer. Ultrasound may also be used to identify the problem.

Finally there are many other things in the breast like veins, milk ducts and fat that can form rare, harmless, growths that are easily treated. To learn more, call the Breast Coalition at (800) 935-0434.

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