fibroadenoma of breast

Last reviewed 01/2018

While often considered a benign neoplasm, fibroadenomas may be thought of as aberrations of normal development. Unlike neoplasms breast fibroadenomas develop from a whole lobule rather than a single cell, and like normal breast tissue they remain responsive to hormonal control. Fibroadenomas are composed of both fibrous and glandular tissue.

Fibroadenomas are common and account for 13% of all symptomatic breast lumps. They are most common in women in their second or third decade, accounting for 60% of breast lumps in this younger population.

Fibroadenomas are thought to result from an increased sensitivity to oestrogen.

Most fibroadenomas do not enlarge after diagnosis.

Reference:

  1. NICE (June 2005).Interstitial laser therapy for fibroadenomas of the breast.
  2. Dixon JM, Mansel RE. BMJ 1994; 309:797-800.