Benign proliferative breast disease

Benign proliferative breast disease refers to a group of noncancerous conditions that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. These conditions involve changes to the cells in the breast tissue that make them appear abnormal under a microscope.

Types of Benign Proliferative Breast Disease

There are several types of benign proliferative breast disease, including:

• Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH): This condition involves abnormal cells in the lining of the breast ducts. It is considered a precancerous condition because it can develop into ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a type of noninvasive breast cancer.

• Atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH): Similar to ADH, ALH involves abnormal cells in the lobules of the breast. It can increase the risk of developing lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), a type of noninvasive breast cancer.

• Intraductal papilloma: This condition involves the growth of wart-like lumps in the breast ducts. While most intraductal papillomas are benign, some can contain abnormal cells or develop into breast cancer.

• Sclerosing adenosis: This condition involves the overgrowth of cells in the lobules of the breast. It can make the breast feel lumpy and can sometimes be mistaken for breast cancer on a mammogram.

Risk Factors

The exact causes of benign proliferative breast disease are unknown, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing these conditions. These include:

• Age: The risk of developing benign proliferative breast disease increases with age.

• Family history: Women with a family history of breast cancer or benign proliferative breast disease may be at higher risk.

• Hormone levels: High levels of estrogen and progesterone may increase the risk of developing benign proliferative breast disease.

Treatment

Treatment for benign proliferative breast disease depends on the specific condition and the patient's overall health. Options may include:

• Observation: Some conditions may not require immediate treatment but will need to be monitored closely for changes.

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove abnormal cells or lumps.

• Medication: Certain medications can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women with benign proliferative breast disease.

See Also

• Breast cancer
• Breast disease
• Breast self-examination
• Mammography