Fibrocystic Breast Condition (cont.)
In this Article
Is there more than one type of fibrocystic breast
condition?
Yes. When biopsies (samples) of breast tissue are studied under the
microscope, it is possible to identify different types of fibrocystic breast
condition. Some cases of fibrocystic breast condition show little disturbance of the
breast tissue. Other cases involve a large number of cysts, along with fibrous
(scar) tissue, in the breast tissue. Additionally, in some cases of fibrocystic
breast condition, the breast cells do not have a normal appearance.
Cysts and fibrosis: Usually, even when the breast is not stimulated to
produce milk, some secretions are produced by the secretory glandular cells.
These secretions are normally reabsorbed "downstream" in the ducts. However,
when there has been tissue damage and scarring (fibrosis) in the breast, these
secretions may be trapped in the glandular portions of the breasts, thereby
leading to the formation of fluid-filled sacs called cysts. In some areas of the
breasts, there may be excessive fluid secretions due to stimulation by
hormone-like substances. The resulting cysts may remain microscopic or enlarge
until they contain several teaspoons or even tablespoons of fluid. These larger
cysts may be felt as palpable (capable of being detected by touching) breast
lumps. Even microscopic cysts may sometimes be felt as palpable lumps if many
cysts are clustered together and there is a buildup of fibrous (scar) tissue
around the cysts.
Hyperplasia and atypical hyperplasia of breast cells: With repeated
stimulation from normal hormones, and possibly the effects of many of the
hormone-like substances produced in the breast, a few of the epithelial cells
(cells that line the ducts in the breast) may eventually lose some of their
genetic controls, which normally limit their multiplication (cell division).
When this happens, cells may proliferate, leading to an abnormal architectural
pattern of the epithelial cells. This over-proliferation of cells is termed
hyperplasia. Sometimes these proliferating cells begin to appear abnormal and to
look different from one another. They are now described as "atypical." As other
more normal cells continue to cycle, die and break down, these atypical cells
can move in, spread out, and accumulate. This extensive overgrowth and
accumulation of atypical cells is called atypical hyperplasia.
Next: Why can fibrocystic breast condition be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer? »
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