What should you know about fibroadenoma juvenile?

Juvenile fibroadenoma is a usually noncancerous breast lump that can grow during adolescence and should be assessed by a clinician. It commonly presents as a firm, smooth, mobile lump, although a person may notice a different texture or breast asymmetry instead. A healthcare professional uses an examination and, when appropriate, imaging to distinguish a fibroadenoma from other breast changes. The next step may be observation, follow-up, or tissue sampling depending on the lump's features and how it changes.

A fibroadenoma is made from fibrous and glandular breast tissue. The juvenile type is seen in younger people and may enlarge as hormone levels change during puberty. It can occur in one breast or both, and a larger lump can alter the breast's shape or cause a feeling of fullness. Many fibroadenomas are not painful, but tenderness can occur, particularly around hormonal changes. The feel of a lump cannot confirm its cause, so a new or changing lump deserves a clinical assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Arrange an appointment with a family doctor, paediatrician, gynaecologist, or breast specialist. Note when the lump was first noticed, whether it changes with the menstrual cycle, and whether there is pain, discharge, or a change in the skin. Do not repeatedly press or massage the area, which can increase soreness and make changes harder to judge. A breast ultrasound is often used to examine a lump in younger breast tissue. If the examination or imaging leaves uncertainty, a breast biopsy may be discussed. Some lumps can be monitored with planned reviews; removal may be considered if the lump is large, continues to grow, causes discomfort, changes breast shape, or remains unclear after assessment.

Seek a prompt medical review for a new lump, a lump that is enlarging, or a change that does not settle after the menstrual cycle. Contact a clinician sooner if there is nipple discharge, especially blood-stained fluid; skin dimpling; nipple inversion that is new; persistent local pain; or a lump in the armpit. Same-day advice is sensible when the breast becomes red, hot, markedly swollen, or very painful, particularly with fever, because infection may need treatment. These signs do not establish a diagnosis, but they should not be explained away as a fibroadenoma without an examination.

You could ask: What features make this lump look like a fibroadenoma? Is an ultrasound appropriate, and what will it show? Do I need a biopsy or a follow-up scan? What changes should prompt an earlier appointment? If the lump grows or affects breast shape, what are the benefits and drawbacks of breast lump excision? Ask how the plan will be explained to the young person and which adult should attend appointments.