Breast masses in children : part 2

Abstract

Fibroadenomas are benign fibroepithelial tumors and are the most common breast masses in girls younger than 20 years of age. The mean patient age at diagnosis is 15-17 years. Most patients present with a slowly enlarging, painless mass that may cause breast asymmetry. At physical examination, the mass is well circumscribed, rubbery, and freely movable; it is most often located in the upper outer quadrant. Fibroadenomas are oestrogen-sensitive and may grow faster during pregnancy, although they usually do not vary in size during the menstrual cycle. Fibroadenomas in males have been reported but are rare because males have no terminal duct-lobular units.