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Breast Lump
A breast lump is any swelling or thickening felt in the breast. Most lumps are not cancer, but every new lump should be checked to be sure.
Causes & risk factors
- Fibroadenoma — a common, harmless firm lump
- Breast cysts — fluid-filled sacs
- Hormonal (fibrocystic) changes with the menstrual cycle
- Infection or an abscess
- Breast cancer
Common symptoms
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- A change in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Nipple changes or discharge
- Breast pain (though most cancers are painless)
- A lump in the armpit
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical breast examination
- Breast ultrasound (often first in younger women)
- Mammogram
- Needle biopsy (FNAC or core biopsy) if needed
- CBC (if infection is suspected)
Treatment & management
- Treatment depends entirely on the cause
- Harmless lumps may just be watched or removed if bothersome
- Cysts can be drained
- Infections are treated with antibiotics, and abscesses drained
- Cancer is treated with surgery, and often radiotherapy, chemo or hormone therapy
When to see a doctor urgently
- Any new breast lump or thickening
- Skin dimpling, nipple change or bloody discharge
- A lump in the armpit
- A lump that is hard, fixed or growing
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about breast lump. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Are most breast lumps cancer?
No. Most breast lumps are benign, such as fibroadenomas or cysts. But because some are cancer, every new lump should be examined and, if needed, imaged and biopsied.
How is a breast lump checked?
Doctors use the "triple assessment" — examination, imaging (ultrasound and/or mammogram) and, if needed, a needle biopsy — to make an accurate diagnosis.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.