Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia of the Breast
Atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) is a precancerous condition that develops when breast tissue cells undergo abnormal changes that affect their size, shape, appearance and growth patterns. The abnormal cells then build up in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast, where they continue to change over time.
Although atypical lobular hyperplasia is a benign condition, women with this diagnosis are three to five times more likely to develop breast cancer in the future. In most cases, ALH is diagnosed after age 35. The younger a woman is at the time of her diagnosis, the more likely she is to develop breast cancer during her lifetime. The condition rarely affects men.
Tampa General Hospital’s renowned Breast Cancer Center offers the latest options for diagnosing atypical lobular hyperplasia and early-stage breast cancer. Our goal is to help each patient find the optimal treatment approach to ensure the best possible quality of life. In recognition of our outstanding cancer outcomes, U.S. News & World Report has awarded TGH the prestigious “High Performing in Cancer” designation for 2023-24.
Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia Causes
The causes of atypical lobular hyperplasia are not well understood. Many experts believe the condition develops as part of a complex process that occurs when healthy breast cells transition into cancer cells. The progression may include:
- Hyperplasia – Normal breast cell development and growth is disrupted, causing an overproduction of normal-looking cells.
- Atypical hyperplasia – Excess breast cells bind together and take on an abnormal appearance.
- Noninvasive (in situ) breast cancer – Abnormal breast cells continue to multiply and evolve into in situ cancer, which remains confined to the lobules.
- Invasive cancer – Abnormal cells build up in the lobules and transition into cancer cells that invade the surrounding lymph nodes, blood vessels and other tissues.
Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia Symptoms
Atypical lobular hyperplasia does not produce specific symptoms, such as breast pain or a lump. The condition is usually discovered during a breast examination performed for an unrelated reason.
Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia Diagnosis
In many cases, atypical lobular hyperplasia is detected during a follow-up breast biopsy ordered by a physician after a clinical breast exam or imaging test, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, produced a suspicious finding or abnormal result.
Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia Treatment
Because atypical lobular hyperplasia increases the risk of breast cancer, it is generally treated with surgery to remove the abnormal tissue and confirm that there is no in situ or invasive cancer in the area. A physician may also recommend more frequent breast cancer screenings, including clinical breast exams, mammograms and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and possibly preventive medication. Studies show that five years of treatment with a selective receptor modulator, such as tamoxifen, may reduce the risk of breast cancer. Additionally, because many breast cancers grow in response to hormone exposure, women with ALH are advised to avoid hormone therapy after menopause.
Receive World-Class Care at TGH
TGH’s Breast Cancer Center is among the highest-volume programs of its kind in Florida. Our board-certified breast surgeons are skilled and experienced in performing the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to address atypical lobular hyperplasia as well as all types and stages of breast cancer. If would like to talk with an expert on our team, contact us at (800) 844-4554 to request an appointment.