Types of breast cysts
What is a breast cyst?
While it may be scary to feel or learn you have a lump in your breast, it could just be a cyst. A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in the duct system behind your nipple. A cyst is typically noncancerous and doesn’t require treatment unless it bothers you. Breast cysts are most common in women between 35 and 50 years old.
Cysts can vary in size. Microcysts are so small they are undetectable. A macrocysts can feel like a grape or small water balloon. It is also very common to have multiple breast cysts at the same time.
There are three different types of breast cysts.
Where are breast cysts usually located?
Breast cysts are detectable anywhere in the breast. If you think of your nipple as a center point, there are up to 12 “branches” stemming out of it. Cysts can form in any of those branches.
Symptoms of breast cysts
You may not ever be able to feel a microcyst. However, some larger breast cysts can be painful and cause tenderness in the breast. You may also notice that the breast pain may fluctuate at different times in your menstrual cycle, as breast cysts can be hormone related. Sometimes the tenderness of your breast and the size of the cyst will increase before your period and decrease after.
Other symptoms include being able to feel and move the lump, as well as nipple discharge that can be clear, yellow or even dark brown.
When to see a doctor
If you have noticed skin changes on either of your breasts or a breast lump has not gone away or grown after one or two months, you should contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will likely order an ultrasound or mammogram.
Breast cyst causes and risk factors
While the exact cause of breast cysts remains unknown, experts agree that fluctuating hormones cause the formation of cysts. This is why it’s most common for women between the ages of 35 and 50 to be prone to finding cysts. People taking hormone therapy, like postmenopausal women, can also experience breast cysts, although this occurrence is less likely. If your family has a history of breast cysts, you may be more likely to have them yourself.
Diagnosing breast cysts
Breast cysts are often discovered during a routine mammogram by a doctor. However, if you notice a lump in your breast that you think maybe a cyst, it’s important to have it checked. After a breast cyst has been detected, diagnosing it usually consists of a few steps, including a breast exam, followed by imaging, like an ultrasound or mammogram, and, if needed, a breast biopsy (or fine needle aspiration).
Breast cyst treatment
Treatment for a breast cyst typically includes a breast cyst aspiration to drain the cyst. However, hormonal birth control and surgery are options for more severe breast cyst symptoms. Your doctor can work with you to determine the right treatment options.
Women's imaging centers
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