Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Differences Between Breast Cyst And Breast Cancer Tumour

Breast cancer is among the most prevalent cancers in India. In 2022, roughly 216,108 such cases were reported as per a study. The data accounts for 28.2% of all cancers in females in our country. Given how common it is, rush to a doctor if you ever notice a bump on your breasts. Now, in many cases, that little bump may not be cancerous at all and be just a cyst, as said by Dr. Akanksha Chhabra, Associate Consultant, Medical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Gurgaon. During self-examination, it is rather difficult to tell them apart. However, some pointers may help.

Breast Cysts Vs. Breast Cancer Tumours: Differences

Research states around 80% of breast cancer cases may be invasive, meaning that the tumour may advance from your breasts to other parts of your body. So the moment you notice a lump, consult a doctor right away. They will use medical tests to determine if it is non-cancerous/benign or malignant/cancerous. Now, as mentioned before, the bump on your breasts may not be a cancerous lump at all and just be a cyst. The differences can be "clinical or it can be done by imaging," states Dr. Chhabra. The same may not even get detected at home. However, these pointers may help.

Breast Cysts

• Small fluid-filled sac-like structures
• Generally harmless
• Mostly rounded, with no sharp edges
• Size may change with menstrual cycle
• Soft and smooth to touch, easily pressed
• Movable inside the breast tissue
• Single or multiple cysts simultaneously
• Common in women going through perimenopause
• Common symptoms include breast pain near the cyst, tenderness, and swelling
• Non-milk substance discharge from nipples
• Symptoms go away after menstruation

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Breast Cancer Tumours

• Painless
• Hard and firm
• Irregular in shape
• Size might change (increase or decrease) with time, doesn't depend on menstrual cycle
• Develops in breast tissue
• Breast shape, size, or contour changes
• Can spread to other body parts
• Lump in the breast or near that area or in the underarms that continues through your periods
• Breast skin dimpling
• Blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from nipples
• Weight loss
• Swelling of lymph nodes

Can Breast Cysts Turn Cancerous?

There is a slim possibility that a simple breast cyst may turn into cancer or increase your odds of getting afflicted with breast cancer in the future. Complex cysts may still have the chance. These cysts usually have thick walls, irregular borders, and some solid matter within the fluid. Medical professionals will conduct a biopsy to see the exact features of the cyst but most complex cysts are also benign.

Interestingly, according to a study done in 2019, an estimated 30% of breast cancer cases were seen in those with a family history of benign breast disease. So, if you learn about your genetic predisposition or are worried about any risk you may have, talk it out with your doctor.

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Image Credits: Freepik

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