Breast nodules are relatively common among women, most of which are benign lesions, but some nodules hide health risks and need to be vigilantly watched. Today, let's talk in detail about the topic of breast nodules.

1 Be Alert to Nodules in Dangerous Locations

Outer Upper Quadrant (near the armpit) This is a high-incidence area for breast nodules, accounting for 50% of all breast nodules. The area near the armpit has rich and dense glandular tissue and is very close to the axillary lymph nodes, which is the most common place for breast malignant tumors to metastasize. Malignant nodules are prone to early metastasis. If a hard, poorly defined lump is felt in this area or if axillary lymph node enlargement is discovered, it is necessary to go to the hospital immediately for complete breast-related examinations.

The areola area The areola area is a transportation hub filled with mammary ducts and blood vessels, where all the duct openings converge. The glandular tissue is very rich, and deep nodules in this area are easily surrounded by surrounding tissues, leading to a 60% missed diagnosis rate for lesions less than 1 cm during palpation, often delaying diagnosis. Certain special types of nodules are prone to developing here, such as intraductal papillary tumors, which may cause bloody nipple discharge and usually require a biopsy to determine if they are malignant. Breast Paget's disease also tends to occur here, typically 表现为 eczema-like changes in the areola and skin scaling, often being confused with areolar eczema. Malignant nodules growing in this area, due to their special location, can easily spread through ducts and lymphatic vessels, often making them contraindications for breast-conserving surgery. Such patients require surgical treatment with a full mastectomy.

Submammary fold Here, the skin is thinner, and due to breast ptosis, it is not easily noticeable by the patient. It is also difficult to palpate during a sitting examination, making early detection challenging. If changes such as the "dimple sign" (skin indentation) or "orange peel-like" (lymphedema causing pore indentation) appear here, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Self-examination suggestions

Seven days after each menstrual period, use the palm of your hand to check the four quadrants of the breast in a circular motion while lying down, making sure not to miss the areas near the armpit and the lower edge of the breast.

2 Pay attention to these danger signals of nodules

When a nodule exhibits the following characteristics, it may be a sign of a malignant nodule, and it is essential to promptly seek medical attention at a hospital for breast ultrasound, mammography, and other examinations, allowing professional breast doctors to make a judgment.

Painless hard lump Benign nodules are usually smooth and movable, while malignant nodules exhibit the "three no" characteristics: unclear boundaries (e.g., spiculated or crusted appearance), firm texture (feels very hard), and immovable upon palpation. Special caution should be exercised with painless lumps. Painless lumps do not mean they are harmless; most malignant nodules are painless. Therefore, do not skip medical consultation just because they are not painful or itchy. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving prognosis.

Skin distress signals If the local skin becomes thick like orange peel with small holes, known as "orange peel-like" changes, or if the skin develops localized depressions resembling dimples (tumor pulling Cooper's ligaments), these are all signs of malignant tumors, and patients should seek medical attention promptly.

Abnormal nipple phenomena Unilateral bloody nipple discharge should be 警惕 of intraductal papillary carcinoma or intraductal carcinoma; if there is inexplicable scaling or erosion in the areola area, Paget's disease must be ruled out. Especially if the erosion in the areola area does not improve after treatment for nipple eczema, it is necessary to go to the breast department for examination.

Link

High-risk groups should take preventive measures

Family history There are many breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients in the family, or a direct family member suffers from breast cancer, or carries a BRCA gene mutation.

Women who have not borne children or bear children late need to be cautious.

Long-term estrogen exposure groups Those with menarche age <12 or menopause age >55, as well as long-term estrogen users.

Metabolic problems Obese individuals with a body mass index (BMI) > 24, whose adipose tissue can produce additional estrogen, leading to metabolic problems.

Emotional stress Long-term anxiety can cause abnormal cortisol levels, disrupting estrogen metabolism.