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Breast tumors during adolescence
A Elsheikh1, A Keramopoulos, D Lazaris
11st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Alexandra Hospital, Greece.
European Journal of Gynaecological Oncology
|October 31, 2000
Summary
Adolescent females with breast masses rarely have cancer. Most masses are benign and managed conservatively, though rare malignant tumors require aggressive treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Breast masses in adolescent females are uncommon.
- Malignancy is rare in this demographic, influencing diagnostic and management approaches.
- Benign neoplasms and cysts are common, originating from breast or related tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical and imaging characteristics of breast masses in adolescent females.
- To determine the incidence of benign versus malignant tumors in this population.
- To evaluate management strategies and outcomes for adolescent breast masses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 684 adolescent females (14-20 years) with breast masses over 22 years (1978-1999).
- Clinical and imaging evaluation of breast masses.
- Surgical ablation and biopsy for definitive diagnosis.
- Conservative management and follow-up for select cases.
Main Results:
- 64.6% of masses were managed conservatively; 35.4% underwent ablation.
- Biopsies revealed 97.5% benign and 2.5% malignant tumors.
- Malignant tumors included hemangiosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, ductal carcinoma, and cystosarcoma phylloides.
Conclusions:
- Breast masses in adolescent females are predominantly benign.
- Conservative management is appropriate for most cases, with biopsy reserved for suspicious lesions.
- While rare, malignant breast tumors in adolescents can be aggressive, necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment.