Medical Surgical Nursing

ᴥ Breast Cancer Mass (Malignant Tumor)

 Usually occurs as a single mass (lump) in one breast

 Firm, hard, embedded in surrounding tissue

 Referral and biopsy indicated for definitive diagnosis

 Usually nontender

 Irregular shape

ᴥ Breast Cyst (Benign Mass)

Occur as single or multiple lumps in one or both breasts

Usually tender (omitting caffeine reduces tenderness); tenderness increases during

premenstrual period

Round shape

Soft or firm, mobile

Referral and biopsy indicated for definitive diagnosis, especially for first mass.

ᴥ Fibroadenoma (Benign Breast Lump)

Usually occurs as a single mass in women aged 15–35 years

Usually nontender