Fibroadenoma Surgery

What is a fibroadenoma?

A fibroadenoma is a benign tumour that arises from the fibroglandular tissue of the breast. It does not have the ability to spread throughout the body. Fibroadenomas usually occur in pre-menopausal women typically 20-40 years of age, although they may occasionally occur in older women and teenagers. Fibroadenomas are responsive to oestrogen and progesterone and therefore their incidence decreases after menopause. In young patients a fibroadenoma is the most common cause for a breast lump. Fibroadenomas are smooth and rubbery lumps that move easily in the breast when pressed.

Is a fibroadenoma the same as a phyllodes tumour?

A fibroadenoma and a phyllodes tumour are not the same. In general, fibroadenomas tend to occur in younger women (20-40 years old), whereas phyllodes tumours tend to occur in post-menopausal women (50-70 years of age). Both types of tumours usually present as a lump that may be firm and mobile. Phyllodes tumours tend to enlarge at a faster rate than the fibroadenomas.

Fibroadenomas are benign and have no ability to spread around the body. Unlike phyllodes tumours which all have the potential to spread throughout the body. Phyllodes tumours are graded as benign (low chance of spreading), intermediate risk or malignant (high risk of spreading). Phyllodes tumours need to be removed due to their ability to spread throughout the body.

Why does a fibroadenoma need to be removed?

Given that fibroadenomas are benign they may not necessarily need to be removed. Under certain circumstances however, removal of a fibroadenoma may be recommended. It is recommended to have your fibroadenoma removed if the imaging or biopsy is atypical or raises suspicion of a phyllodes tumour. Removal of a fibroadenoma is also recommended if it is rapidly growing or increasing in size over time.  Fibroadenomas that are causing pain may also be removed. Some patients prefer not to have a lump in their breast and in such cases the fibroadenoma may be removed.