Breast cysts, or fluid-filled sacs in the breast, can occur in women of all ages but are most commonly found in women over 40. They develop due to hormonal changes and alterations in breast tissue that occur with age.

What causes breast cysts?

 

The exact cause of breast cysts is not clearly known, but they are thought to be related to hormonal changes during menstruation. Rising hormone levels—especially estrogen—can alter the structure of the milk-producing glands and trigger the formation of fluid-filled sacs in the breast.

 

What are the symptoms of breast cysts?

 

Small breast cysts often cause no symptoms. As a cyst enlarges, it may be palpable as a smooth, round or oval, mobile lump. There may be breast tenderness or fullness at the cyst site, particularly around the menstrual period. Cysts can occur in one or both breasts and may enlarge or shrink with the cycle.

 

 

How are breast cysts diagnosed?

 

In addition to a clinical breast exam (palpation), doctors may use other tests to aid diagnosis, as follows:

 

1. Breast ultrasound to determine whether a lump is fluid-filled (cyst) or solid, and to assess features that might suggest malignancy.
2. Mammography (x-ray of the breast) to visualize breast tissue details, cysts, fat, calcifications, masses, and the likelihood of cancer.
3. Aspiration (fluid drainage) or core needle biopsy when ultrasound or mammogram findings raise suspicion; tissue is sent for pathology to check for cancer cells.

 

 

How are breast cysts treated?

 

Small, simple cysts without pain usually do not require treatment but should be monitored every 6–12 months. For symptomatic or large cysts, doctors may consider the following options:

 

• Fine-needle aspiration to drain cyst fluid and collapse the cyst. Recurrence can occur.

 

• Surgical removal of the entire cyst for large, symptomatic cysts or those with higher cancer risk—for example, cysts with thick walls or internal solid components.

 

 

Can breast cysts turn into cancer?

 

Most simple breast cysts do not become cancer. A small proportion of cystic lesions are malignant from the outset. Definitive diagnosis requires tissue sampling (biopsy). If you are unsure whether a breast lump is a cyst or cancer, consult a physician promptly.

 

 

Breast Center, Department of Surgery

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