8 breast diseases that go beyond breast cancer

Breast health is an important concern for women of all ages. Although breast cancer is one of the most discussed and feared breast diseases, the truth is that there are several other conditions that affect this part of the female body.

These diseases, often overlooked in the public conversation, can also have a significant impact on women’s quality of life.. In this article, we will explore eight breast diseases that go beyond breast cancer, highlighting the need for awareness and understanding about these lesser-known conditions. Through knowledge and early detection, women can take steps to comprehensively protect their breast health.

1. Mastitis is one of the breast diseases that deserves your attention

One of the most common conditions that affects the breasts is mastitis, which usually occurs in women who are breastfeeding. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can cause pain, swelling and redness..

Although it is generally treatable, if not addressed properly, infection can develop, becoming a more serious concern.

2. Breast hyperplasia

Breast hyperplasia occurs when cells in breast tissue multiply more than normal, leading to an increase in breast density. The exact causes of breast hyperplasia are not fully understood, but hormonal factors are thought to play an important role..

Changes in hormone levels, such as fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, can influence the development of this condition. Additionally, some women may be more predisposed to breast hyperplasia due to genetic factors.

To diagnose breast hyperplasia, a doctor usually performs a clinical breast exam and may order imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound.. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the condition.

3. Fibroadenoma

Another non-cancerous breast condition that deserves attention is fibroadenoma, a benign tumor that can appear in women of all ages..

Although rarely life-threatening, these nodules can grow, causing discomfort and concern. Surgical removal is an option to alleviate symptoms.

4. Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Many women experience fibrocystic breast disease, which involves the formation of small cysts and fibrous tissue in the breasts.

This can cause pain, tenderness, and even make it difficult to detect suspicious lumps.

5. Paget’s disease of the breast

The exact cause of Paget’s disease in the breast is still the subject of ongoing study and research. However, the most accepted theory is that this condition is related to an underlying breast cancer, often invasive ductal. Cancer cells migrate from the breast to the skin of the nipple and areola, causing the characteristic changes seen on the surface of the skin.

The most notable feature of Paget’s disease in the breast is changes in the skin of the nipple and areola. Common symptoms include itching, redness, scaling, crusting, ulcerations, and discharge of a bloody or yellowish fluid from the nipple.. These symptoms are often persistent and can be confused with other skin conditions, delaying diagnosis.

6. Benign functional breast disease

Benign functional breast disease is a common condition that affects women, generally of reproductive age. This condition is not a disease, but rather a description of several benign changes that can occur in the breasts, causing discomfort or pain. It is not related to breast cancer.

Benign functional breast disease is caused by hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. Symptoms may include tenderness, pain, swelling, breast lumps, or changes in the texture of the breasts.. These symptoms tend to worsen before the menstrual period and can vary in severity from woman to woman.

7. Adenose

Breast adenosis is a benign breast condition that involves an abnormal increase in the number of mammary glands. It is characterized by an excessive proliferation of these glands and can be associated with palpable nodules in the breasts.. Breast adenosis is not a malignant disease, but it can cause discomfort and concern in women.

Common symptoms of adenosis include the presence of breast lumps, tenderness and pain. These lumps can be felt during a clinical breast exam and, although usually benign, can be mistaken for lumps associated with breast cancer.

8. Fibrosis

Breast fibrosis is caused by hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. It is characterized by an increase in the amount of connective tissue in the breasts, which can lead to symptoms such as tenderness, pain, swelling and lumps in the breasts.. Symptoms tend to worsen before the menstrual period and can vary in severity from woman to woman.

It is essential to highlight that breast fibrosis does not increase the risk of breast cancer. However, it is important that any changes in the breasts that persist or cause concern are evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure that there is not a more serious condition behind the symptoms.

See also: 8 symptoms of breast cancer that go far beyond the lump

Sources: Vida Natural, Guilherme Novita and GEAP