Breast Cysts

Breast cysts are round or oval shaped, benign, firm or fluid filled sacs inside the breast. Commonly, seen in women,between the ages of 35 -50 years. They develop as a result of hormonal changes from monthly menstruation. Symptoms include smooth and easily movable lump, clear or coloured discharge from nipples, pain or tenderness in the lump area, change in size of the lump before and after period.

It is estimated that 7% of women in the western world develop breast cysts. India has 47,964 death cases accounting for 0.53% of total deaths . Breast cysts can be diagnosed by Breast ultrasound or Fine-needle aspiration or mammogram tests.

Cysts that are fluid filled and do not show any symptoms need no treatment. However, depending upon the severity can be treated by discontinuing hormone therapy, needle aspiration biopsy or surgery.