Fibrocystic Changes

Benign breast conditions are very common. 90% of women will experience some kind of benign breast condition during their lifetime. These conditions are not life-threatening, but certain benign conditions have been linked with an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

One fairly common benign breast condition is known as fibrocystic changes. These changes in the breast tissue usually involve both the glandular and supporting, or stromal, tissues. This condition used to be called "fibrocystic disease," but in recent years it has been more accurately referred to as a “change” instead of a disease. This condition affects up to 50% of all women at some point, most often during their childbearing years.

The term "fibrocystic" refers to the fact that both fibrosis and cysts are often present in the breast. Fibrosis is a fibrous tissue similar to ligaments and to scar tissues. Fibrosis often changes the way that a breast feels to the touch, for example making areas of the breast feel hard or ‘rubbery.” Fibrosis does not increase the risk of developing breast cancer and usually does not require any special treatment.

The cysts that characterize fibrocystic breast changes are spaces filled with fluid lined by breast glandular cells. Fluid builds up inside the glands of the breast, initially forming small cysts, called microcysts, that are detectable only when breast tissue is examined under a microscope. If fluid continues to build up, larger cysts, called macrocysts, can develop. These cysts can be detected during a self-exam and can grow to several inches in diameter. As cysts grow, they can cause pressure and stretching of the surrounding breast tissue, which can be uncomfortable. These cysts often become larger and more painful just before a woman’s period, as a result of monthly hormonal changes.

Frequently a lump found in a woman’s breast is simply a result of fibrocystic changes, and the cysts that have developed.  A round lump that can be moved and is tender to the touch, is often a cyst. An ultrasound can confirm the presence of the cyst, and the cyst can often be drained using a technique called fine needle aspiration. Removing the fluid can reduce the pressure and pain. Fluid may sometimes accumulate again, and more aspirations may be necessary. Having one or more cysts does not affect the risk of later developing breast cancer.