Studies show that fibroadenoma affects 25% of women worldwide. In most cases, fibroadenoma resolves without medical intervention. However, some types can grow larger, causing pain and discomfort. 

Learning about fibroadenoma, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methods is necessary to manage the condition more effectively. Keep reading for a detailed insight into fibroadenoma.

What is Fibroadenoma? 

Fibroadenoma is a type of breast tumour that consists of glandular and fibrous tissue that forms a mass. Mostly benign (noncancerous), this solid and smooth tumour generally shrinks even if you don’t get any treatment. 

Routine tests are essential to monitor the size and condition of the fibroadenoma. If a complication occurs, the healthcare provider will advise surgery to remove the lumps. 

What are the Types of Fibroadenoma?

Fibroadenoma of the breast is mainly of 5 types. Here are they:

1. Simple Fibroadenoma

Women around 15 to 35 years of age are mostly diagnosed with a simple fibroadenoma, which constitutes almost 75% of this breast tumour type. This type of fibroadenoma is generally oval or round in shape, with a single lump and defined border. 

It does not require any treatment, but a routine diagnosis is necessary. Simple fibroadenoma is generally detected during a mammogram or routine breast checkup.

2. Complex Fibroadenoma

Complex fibroadenoma constitutes only 0.5% to 2% of the total fibroadenoma cases. It is mostly detected in younger women and tends to grow fast. It has additional features such as abnormal cell growth, cysts’ presence, or calcifications that can be detected under a microscope. 

A complex fibroadenoma is benign, but it seems similar to a phyllodes tumour, a rare type of breast cancer that has the possibility to be malignant. Therefore, your doctor will suggest a biopsy test.

3. Giant Fibroadenoma

Though it is a simple fibroadenoma, it can grow more than 5 centimetres and sometimes above 10 centimetres. Although they are generally benign, their faster growth and larger size make them a concerning issue. Thus, doctors suggest treatment to remove the lumps when they become discomforting. 

4. Juvenile Fibroadenoma

Juvenile fibroadenoma mainly affects young women under the age of 25. It is not as large as a simple fibroadenoma and mostly disappears automatically. However, sometimes, it may grow in size and cause pain and discomfort. In such cases, it needs to be removed through surgery.

5. Multiple Fibroadenomas

Multiple fibroadenomas are benign breast lumps that occur in less than 10% of women with fibroadenomas. They may appear in one or both breasts and often require monitoring for changes in size or shape. 

Though typically harmless, a biopsy may be recommended if they grow rapidly, cause discomfort, or show concerning features.

Causes of Fibroadenoma

The exact cause of fibroadenoma in the breast is not fully confirmed, but here are some of the causes that contribute to the development of this tumour:

• Hormonal Fluctuations

Estrogen may influence fibroadenoma development in females. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause increase breast tissue sensitivity, raising the likelihood of fibroadenomas. Moreover, tumours may grow during pregnancy, causing fibroadenomas and shrinking during menopause.

• Family History

A family history of fibroadenomas or breast cancer increases the risks of an individual. Genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 (breast cancer gene), also elevate the likelihood of fibroadenomas and breast cancer.

• Age

Fibroadenoma is common in women in their 20s and 30s. However, the risk of developing such conditions decreases with age.

• Race

This breast tumour type is more prevalent in white women compared to other races. However, the reason behind this is not clear yet. 

• Lifestyle Factors

High-fat diets may raise estrogen levels in the body, increasing the risk of fibroadenoma. Alcohol consumption can also affect hormone metabolism, elevating the likelihood of fibroadenomas. Smoking may also disrupt hormone metabolism, contributing to tumour growth.

Understanding these factors helps identify at-risk individuals and guide monitoring or preventive measures for fibroadenomas.

Symptoms of Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenoma symptoms can be understood by analysing the following factors:

• Nature of Fibroadenoma

These are solid, non-fluid-filled breast lumps that are benign (non-cancerous). Fibroadenomas are mostly painless and easily movable under the skin.

• Hormonal Sensitivity

This tumour may become tender before menstruation. However, larger fibroadenomas are more likely to cause discomfort.

• Size and Shape

These tumours are usually round or oval with smooth, clear borders. It can range from the size of a pea to a golf ball (2–3 cm is common).

• Growth Patterns

They grow slowly and may shrink in teens or post-menopause. However, due to hormonal changes, they can enlarge during pregnancy.

• Texture

Fibroadenoma may feel firm or rubbery when touched. Fibroadenomas are generally harmless but require monitoring for changes in size or symptoms.

Diagnosis of Fibroadenoma 

Visiting a doctor to evaluate the lump is essential to determine its nature. Here are some of the diagnostic methods that a healthcare provider will suggest:

• Physical Examination

Your doctor will examine the lump’s size, texture, and mobility by touching the tumour on the skin.

• Imaging Tests

You may undergo an ultrasound or mammogram to assess the lump, depending on your age and pregnancy status. A radiologist will review the images to determine if it’s a fibroadenoma or some other condition.

• Biopsy 

Your doctor may recommend a biopsy if imaging is inconclusive or further confirmation is needed. A fine-needle biopsy involves inserting a thin needle into the lump to extract a small tissue sample for lab testing.

The biopsy results will help confirm whether the lump is benign (like a fibroadenoma) or requires further treatment. Prompt evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of breast lumps.

Treatment Options for Fibroadenoma 

Fibroadenomas are benign breast lumps that often require no treatment. However, depending on size, growth rate, symptoms, or concerns about malignancy, intervention may be necessary in certain cases.

Observation and Conservative Management

No immediate treatment is required if imaging tests and biopsy confirm the fibroadenoma is benign. Regular follow-up visits with ultrasounds are recommended to monitor changes in size or shape. Fibroadenomas may shrink or resolve naturally, especially during menopause or after pregnancy.

Surgical Removal

Surgery is advised for large, fast-growing fibroadenomas or those causing discomfort. It is also the standard treatment for giant fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumours.

Lumpectomy (Surgical Excision)

In a lumpectomy, a surgeon removes the lump using a scalpel under general anaesthesia. This procedure ensures complete removal but may leave scars and alter breast appearance.

Vacuum-Assisted Excision

It is a minimally invasive option for smaller fibroadenomas. Under local anaesthesia, a vacuum device guided by ultrasound is used to remove the lump without stitches.

Cryoablation (Freezing)

It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses freezing temperatures to destroy fibroadenoma tissue under ultrasound guidance. Cryoablation preserves breast appearance, avoids scarring, and allows rapid recovery without hospital admission. This treatment method is suitable for fibroadenomas smaller than 4 cm and confirmed benign through biopsy.

Treatment of fibroadenoma depends on factors such as lump size, growth rate, patient age, family history of breast cancer, and personal preferences. Cryoablation offers cosmetically superior results for small fibroadenomas, while surgery remains essential for larger or symptomatic lumps.

FAQs about Fibroadenoma

1. Does fibroadenoma cause any complications?

Most fibroadenomas are benign, non-cancerous breast lumps but can grow, change appearance, or cause pain. Regular breast exams or mammograms are crucial for early detection and reducing complications from breast diseases.

2. Is it possible to prevent fibroadenoma?

You can’t prevent fibroadenomas, but you can reduce the risks of breast cancer through regular self-exams, clinical checkups, mammograms, moderate alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.

3. Can fibroadenomas cause cancer?

Fibroadenomas are generally benign, without any risk of cancer. However, rare complex fibroadenomas slightly elevate the risk compared to those without breast lumps, particularly when associated with specific histologic features or family history.

4. Is fibroadenoma and breast adenoma the same?

Breast adenomas and fibroadenomas are benign tumours; adenomas consist of glandular tissue, while fibroadenomas contain both glandular and fibrous tissue.

5. Is it possible to breastfeed with conditions like fibroadenoma?

Having a fibroadenoma generally doesn’t affect breastfeeding, but if it causes discomfort, consulting a lactation expert can help with positioning strategies to make breastfeeding more comfortable.

Conclusion

Every woman should learn about fibroadenoma to stay aware of its consequences and management. Moreover, routine checkups like mammograms will help detect any abnormality in the breasts at an early stage and prevent the risks of developing a tumour. With DocTutorials, you can get the best preparation assistance for medical exams. Our specialised training sessions, recorded video lectures, and integrated MCQ discussion videos are designed to offer the best guidance to our students. Join our NEET PG course today!