Tampa General Hospital teams are monitoring the weather emergency. Click here for the latest updates for our patients and community. See the Latest Updates

Fibroadenomas of the Breast

Noncancerous breast lumps are common, and fibroadenomas are the most frequently diagnosed type, especially in women between the ages of 15 and 35. Researchers estimate that up to 10% of women will have a fibroadenoma at some point during their life.

The latest diagnostic options for benign and cancerous breast conditions—including breast biopsies and imaging procedures—are available through Tampa General Hospital’s Breast Cancer Center. Accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), TGH is proud to be recognized as “High Performing in Cancer” by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-24.

What Are Fibroadenomas?

Fibroadenomas are benign lumps that form in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. Composed of fibrous and glandular tissue, these round, solid tumors can range in size from a pea to a golf ball.

There are two main types of fibroadenomas: simple and complex. When viewed under a microscope, the cells of a simple fibroadenoma are usually uniform, while the cells of a complex fibroadenoma have a more varied appearance. Complex fibroadenomas are also less common and faster growing than simple fibroadenomas, and they sometimes contain cell overgrowth (hyperplasia) or calcium deposits (microcalcifications) that can be seen in a mammogram.

Can Fibroadenomas Turn Into Cancer?

Fibroadenomas are not breast cancer. In very rare instances, a complex fibroadenoma may contain precancerous cells or slightly increase the risk of breast cancer.

What Causes Fibroadenomas?

Some experts believe an increased sensitivity of the breast tissue to the female reproductive hormone estrogen may play a role in the development of fibroadenomas, which usually grow during pregnancy and hormone therapy (when estrogen levels are high) and tend to shrink during menopause (when estrogen levels are low). However, the precise causes are not yet fully understood.

Do Fibroadenomas Go Away?

Some fibroadenomas grow over time, but many shrink or disappear without treatment, especially after menopause.

Do Fibroadenomas Hurt?

Most small fibroadenomas are not painful, although they may feel tender in the days leading up to a menstrual period. A large fibroadenoma may be uncomfortable or sensitive to the touch, especially when pushed or prodded.

Fibroadenoma Symptoms

Unlike cancerous tumors, which tend to be fixed in the breast tissue, fibroadenomas can be easily moved under the skin when pushed or pressed. Usually, the lumps feel smooth and rubbery to the touch.

How Are Fibroadenomas Diagnosed?

Some fibroadenomas are too small to be felt or noticed. If a breast lump is found, a physician may order:

  • Imaging scans, including a mammogram and/or breast ultrasound
  • An image-guided core needle breast biopsy, which involves removing a tissue sample from the lump and sending it to a lab for microscopic analysis

Fibroadenoma Treatment

Most fibroadenomas do not require treatment. For a small, painless and slow-growing lump, a physician may suggest a “wait and watch” approach. Generally, this will involve monitoring the fibroadenoma with more frequent screenings, such as clinical breast exams, mammograms and/or breast ultrasounds, to help ensure that any changes are detected early.

Surgical removal may be considered if a fibroadenoma is:

  • Painful
  • Growing rapidly
  • Causing noticeable breast asymmetry
  • Confirmed to be a complex fibroadenoma

Receive World-Class Care at TGH

At TGH, we develop an appropriate surveillance program for each patient who is diagnosed with a fibroadenoma. If you would like to talk with an expert on our team, contact us at (800) 844-4554 to request an appointment.