Overview

• A well-defined collection of fluid within the breast that is influenced by hormonal changes
• Very Common → 25% of all breast masses
• More common in perimenopausal women, peak incidence 35-50 yrs old

Making Diagnosis

Clinical Features:

Usually presents as small discrete breast lump (soft fluctubale swelling)

• Single or multiple breast masses
• May be painful or tender
• Variable size & texture
• Usually moveable

Investigations:

• Breast Ultrasound or Mammography → depending on womans age (Ultrasound in younger patients, <30/35)
  • ‘Halo Appearance’ on mammography
  • Ultrasound will confirm the fluid filled nature of the cyst

Management Plan

• Aspiration ⇒ those which are blood stained or persistently refill should be biopsied or excised