Discovering a lump in the breast is stressful, whether the lump is discovered during a routine mammogram or by you or your partner at home. The good news is that the vast majority of breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and many will go away by themselves with no treatment necessary. However, lumps that are persistent, that continue to grow, that don't go away after your period or are accompanied by a discharge from your nipple require immediate medical evaluation. If necessary, your physician may recommend surgical removal of the lump for biopsy to confirm or refute a diagnosis of cancer.
Instructions
1. Prepare a list of symptoms you noticed about the lump on your breast including when you first noticed it; if there is any pain associated with it; if you have had any trauma to the area that might have caused it; whether there is swelling, dimpling of the skin or rash; and whether it is accompanied by a discharge from your nipple. Schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss these symptoms.
2. Undergo a complete physical examination. Be prepared to undergo additional diagnostic testing if necessary, which may include MRI, mammogram, needle aspiration, ultrasound or other tests.
3. Consult with your physician regarding treatment options if it appears the lump is benign. If the lump is determined to be the result of fibrocystic breast changes, there will likely be no treatment recommended because this is considered normal in most cases. Lumps from infection may be treated with a combination of antibiotics, warm compresses and massage. Lumps caused by breast cysts may be drained. Lumps that are the result of fibroadenomas will usually need to be removed by surgery to determine whether they are cancerous. This procedure is called a lumpectomy.
4. Check into the hospital. Determine with your physician whether a local or general anesthetic is best for your situation.
5. Undergo the lumpectomy. The surgeon will make an incision and remove the lump along with a small amount of healthy tissue. He or she may insert a drain tube prior to closing and dressing the wound.
6. Be prepared to spend at least one night in the hospital for recovery. Follow your physician's instructions regarding the use of pain medication, wound care and followup visits.
7. Wait for the test results. The tissue that was removed will be sent to a medical laboratory for biopsy and the results should be available in a matter of days. Discuss the test results and any recommended treatment with your physician.
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