Cyst/fibroadenoma/could it be cancer ?

Last year I was referred to a breast clinic for a small lump that was checked by ultrasound and found to be an oil filled cyst. She had the screen turned away from so I couldn't comment on appearance. 

Over the last few months its doubled in size so I returned to gp who referred me to the breast clinic. I went and told my story was examined and the doc suspected a cyst but sent me for ultrasound.  

I could see the screen and even I knew it wasn't a simple cyst .. it looks benign in so much that its oval , but has a thick border and what I can only describe as spiderweb lines inside which is the very strange part, they decided it should have a biopsy so they did that. 

I go back on Tuesday for results. 

I was at first really positive (but shaken that it wasn't a cyst) as the features kinda point to benign but have really gone downhill mentally as I can't understand how they could be so certain it was a cyst a year ago and now its doubled in size and definitely not a cyst but probably a fibroadenoma ..  they are very different things !! 

Can I also add that I am so certain my prolactin is high and am going for a blood test next Friday (via gp) 

I don't not what I'm reaching out for .. I am annoyed at myself for letting my head get in such a spin !! 


  • Hi Dawnybee,

    I am not a doctor - just someone who has had 2 bouts of breast cancer in the past 12 years. From reading many posts here in that time, cysts or fibroadenoma are probably one of the best diagnoses you could get. I understand that some cysts can eventually lead to cancer. You are correct cysts and fibroadenoma are two very different conditions, so I understand your confusion..

    I sincerely hope that you get good news on Tuesday and shall be keeping my fingers crossed for you. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Thank you Jolamine, 

    I really hope it is benign and mostly looking at shape (oval) I would think it is. I just can't help but worry due to the weird inner of the mass , I have searched and searched online ultrasound images and cannot find one fibroadenoma that has a central area like mine , I think its defined as septums in terminology rather than my description of spiderweb!! 

    Because it has grown so much even if they say its benign I want it out and sent to pathology. Last year when they thought it was a cyst they offered to drain it but said it should dissappear within a year so I decided to leave it, this year its definitely solid as when they did a biopsy it didn't collapse at all. 

    Thank you for your reply xx


  • Hi Dawnybee,

    I really hope that ths is benign too, but can understand your worry. Make sure that you have written down all the questions you want to ask before you have your next consultation. You will argue your case for removal much better if you do this.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx