Doctor of First-Degree Specialization Le Ngoc Vinh, from the Department of Surgical Oncology at the Oncology Center, Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, answers:

Breast fibroadenoma is a common benign lump composed of fibrous and glandular tissue. These lumps typically range from a few millimeters to 3 cm and grow slowly. A fibroadenoma is firm, non-fluid-filled, painless, and moves easily under the skin when pressed around the breast. It feels smooth and has distinct borders. Fibroadenomas may soften a few days before menstruation.

This is the most common type of benign breast lump, frequently observed in women aged 15-35 years. While generally harmless, in a small number of cases, a breast fibroadenoma can transform into breast cancer.

Doctor Vinh consults a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Fibroadenomas are classified into: simple fibroadenoma, complex fibroadenoma, giant fibroadenoma, and juvenile fibroadenoma. Among these, complex fibroadenoma carries an increased risk of progressing to breast cancer. Under a microscope, complex fibroadenomas exhibit heterogeneous cellular features along with calcification.

Fibroadenomas often shrink or disappear without requiring specific treatment. These lumps may naturally reduce in size during menopause but can grow rapidly during pregnancy.

Regular follow-ups as scheduled by your doctor are essential, along with consistent breast self-examinations. You should seek medical attention if you notice any sudden increase in the lump's size, the appearance of new lumps, or nipple discharge.

Diagnostic procedures typically include a clinical examination, breast ultrasound, and mammography to check for abnormalities. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create digital images of the breast's interior, while mammography reconstructs the internal structure of the mammary gland. If cancer is suspected, doctors will order a core needle biopsy, guided by ultrasound or mammography, to obtain a tissue sample of the fibroadenoma for pathological examination.

Surgical removal is recommended if abnormal changes are detected, such as a painful lump, significant size increase, imaging or biopsy findings suggestive of cancer, or other complications.