Breast Cysts
Cysts are one of the most common types of noncancerous breast lumps. Experts estimate that up to 7% of women will develop a breast cyst at some point during their lifetime, usually before menopause. Contrary to popular belief, benign cysts are harmless and cannot transform into cancer.
With that said, it is important to promptly discuss any unusual breast changes, including a new lump or cyst, with a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis. The experienced specialists in Tampa General Hospital’s Breast Cancer Center provide innovative and personalized breast health services, including the latest options in diagnostic testing.
What Are Breast Cysts?
Cysts are closed, fluid-filled sacs. Breast cysts form when fluid accumulates in glandular breast tissue.
What Causes Breast Cysts?
Scientists believe natural hormonal fluctuations may contribute to the formation of breast cysts, which are uncommon after menopause when estrogen levels taper off. Also, as part of the normal life cycle of breast tissue, the milk-producing glandular tissue naturally shrinks. Fluid may then become trapped within an empty milk duct and form a cyst.
Where Are Breast Cysts Usually Located?
Breast cysts can develop anywhere in the glandular tissue of one or both breasts. In many cases, they form close to the surface of the skin near the nipple or in the upper, outer quadrant of a breast.
Breast Cyst Symptoms
Breast cysts are round or oval lumps with smooth edges. Many are too small to cause noticeable symptoms (microcysts). A breast cyst located close to the surface of the skin may feel like a blister. A large breast cyst may feel like a grape or water balloon that easily moves under the skin when pushed or pressed. Other symptoms can include:
- Unusual nipple discharge that may be clear, straw-colored or dark brown
- Breast pain or tenderness that intensifies just before a menstrual period and improves afterward
- A breast lump that grows in size just before a menstrual period and shrinks afterward
How Are Breast Cysts Diagnosed?
Most breast cysts are detected in a routine mammogram performed to screen for breast cancer. To confirm the diagnosis, a physician may:
- Perform a physical examination to feel the consistency of the lump and pinpoint its exact location
- Order a breast ultrasound to determine if the lump is fluid-filled or solid
- Order a fine-needle aspiration to see if the lump goes away after the fluid is withdrawn
Breast Cyst Treatments
Most breast cysts do not require treatment, and some go away on their own. If a cyst is causing discomfort, a physician may order a fine-needle aspiration to drain fluid from the cyst and ease the symptoms. After the cyst is aspirated, it should collapse; however, it may come back. If a cyst returns and continues to cause pain, surgical removal may be considered.
How to Dissolve Cysts in Breasts Naturally
Some breast cysts disappear without treatment. Others can be “dissolved” with a fine-needle aspiration. However, recurrence is common and it may be necessary to drain a cyst more than once. Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may help reduce the recurrence of breast cysts by balancing hormone levels and regulating the menstrual cycle. After menopause, avoiding or discontinuing hormone therapy can also help.
Receive World-Class Care at TGH
If you would like to learn more about breast cysts, contact TGH at (800) 844-4554 to request an appointment with a breast specialist on our team.