What is it?
A fibroadenoma is a mobile lump which arises from an overgrowth of fibrous and glandular tissue in the breast. Some women may have several such lumps. They usually occur in women between the ages of 20 and 40 years of age. Simple fibroadenomas are not cancerous and the risk of developing breast cancer is no more than that of a woman without fibroadenoma.

What can be done?
In women over 30 years of age it usual to recommend removal of the lump. This involves an operation under general anaesthetic in which a small cut is made in the overlying skin and the lump is then removed. The skin is sewn back together with an absorbable stitch.

In younger women (under 30) fibroadenomas are not routinely removed provided that tests have been carried out to confirm the diagnosis. If left; the lump may disappear, stay the same or possibly grow a little bigger. If you are concerned about any changes in the lump let your doctor or breast clinic know.

If you require further advice or information please contact the
Macmillan Breast Care Nurses, Hazel Ricard and Hilary Rickwood on 020 8565 5885