Pseudoangiomatous Stromal Hyperplasia (PASH)
Tampa General Hospital—the No. 1 hospital in Tampa Bay, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report each year since 2016—proudly offers treatment for pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH). We’ve earned a reputation for delivering top-quality care, and in the event that you’re diagnosed with PASH, you can count on the multidisciplinary team at our renowned Breast Cancer Center to develop an individualized treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific needs and goals.
What Is PASH?
Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia is a type of benign (noncancerous) lesion that develops in breast tissue. PASH occurs when myofibroblastic cells grow in excess.
How Rare Is PASH?
Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia is a relatively rare condition, with only 109 cases having been reported between 1986 (when the condition was first identified) and 2005. Although PASH can affect anyone—including both men and women—it’s most common among premenopausal and perimenopausal women (usually between the ages of 13 and 55).
What Causes PASH?
Researchers are still working to determine exactly what causes pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia. With that said, studies suggest that PASH may develop due to certain hormonal changes that occur within the body.
What Are the Symptoms of PASH?
Many individuals with pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia develop a firm, painless lump in their breast tissue, which they may notice when palpating the breast (for example, during a regular self-exam). The size of this lump will vary from one person to another. In some cases, PASH can also cause the breast to become enlarged.
It’s important to note that PASH doesn’t always produce noticeable symptoms. For this reason, PASH is often found incidentally during a routine mammogram or through a breast biopsy for an unrelated condition.
How Is PASH Diagnosed?
Medical providers can use a wide array of tests to diagnose pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia, including:
- Core needle biopsies
- Fine-needle aspirations
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
- Mammograms
- Ultrasounds
PASH Breast Biopsy
If you’ve never undergone a biopsy before, you may be unsure what to expect. First, a medical provider will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area where they plan to collect the sample. Next, they’ll insert a hollow needle into the breast and use it to remove a small amount of tissue. Then, they’ll send the sample to a laboratory for testing. Breast biopsies are generally performed on an outpatient basis (meaning that you don’t need to stay at the hospital overnight) and leave minimal scarring, if any.
How Is PASH Treated?
Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia doesn’t always require treatment, with many providers opting to take a “wait-and-see” approach. However, some patients choose to have PASH lumps surgically removed if the masses are especially large or producing unpleasant symptoms. This is usually accomplished through a lumpectomy, and because PASH can return, surgeons often remove a wide margin of surrounding healthy tissue to help reduce the risk of a recurrence. When you come to Tampa General Hospital for PASH treatment, we’ll recommend the approach that’s most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Does PASH Increase My Risk of Breast Cancer?
No, having pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia doesn’t increase a person’s chances of developing breast cancer. Research hasn’t shown any connection between PASH and breast malignancies.
With that said, even if you’ve recently been diagnosed with PASH, it’s important to remain vigilant for any signs of breast cancer. Some individuals with this condition delay seeking treatment for breast lumps, mistakenly assuming that they’re related to PASH when they’re actually a symptom of a more serious malignancy. So, if you notice any changes in your breast tissue, be sure to consult with a professional as soon as possible.
Your Top Choice for PASH Treatment in Tampa Bay
If you’re concerned that you might have pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia, you can turn to Tampa General Hospital’s esteemed Breast Cancer Center for diagnosis and treatment. Contact us at (800) 844-4554 to schedule a consultation at a date and time that’s convenient for you.