The cyst in the breast, also known as a breast cyst, is an almost always benign disorder that appears in most women, between 15 and 50 years of age. Most breast cysts are of the simple type and, therefore, they are filled only by liquid, not posing any danger to health.
However, there are two more main types of cysts:
- Thick breast cyst: contains a thicker liquid, similar to gelatin; Breast cyst with solid content: it has a hard mass inside.
Of these types of cyst, the only one that has some risk of becoming cancer is the solid cyst, which can also be known as papillary carcinoma, and which needs to be evaluated by biopsy to identify whether there are cancer cells inside.
Most of the time, the cyst does not hurt and is hardly noticed by the woman. In general, a breast cyst is only noticed when it is very large and the breast becomes more swollen and heavier. See all symptoms here.
How to diagnose breast cyst
The cyst in the breast can be diagnosed using breast ultrasound or mammography, and does not require specific treatment. However, women who have a very large cyst that causes pain and discomfort can benefit from a puncture to remove the fluid that forms the cyst, ending the problem.
It is also important to regularly do the breast self-examination. Watch the following video and see how to do it correctly:
When the cyst in the breast can be severe
Almost all breast cysts are benign, so the risk of developing cancer from this change is very low. However, all solid cysts must be assessed using a biopsy, as they have some risk of being cancer.
In addition, the cyst can also be analyzed by biopsy if it is increasing in size or if symptoms appear that may indicate cancer such as:
- Frequent itching in the breast; Fluid release through the nipples; Increased size of one breast; Changes in the breast skin.
In these cases, it is very important to go to the doctor to do new cyst exams and even assess whether there is a possibility of developing cancer that is not related to the cyst, for example.
Even if all tests indicate that the cyst is benign, a woman should have a mammogram 1 to 2 times a year, according to the guidance of her doctor, as she continues to present the same risk as any other woman of having breast cancer..
Check out the 12 main symptoms of breast cancer.
