Breast Masses in Adolescent Females: A Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Adolescent Gynecology
• Breast Pathology

Background:

• Breast masses in adolescent females are uncommon but significant.
• Existing literature on adolescent breast pathologies lacks centralization.
• These conditions can have substantial clinical and psychological effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate current knowledge on adolescent breast masses.
• To identify gaps in the scientific literature.
• To propose a structured clinical algorithm for managing these cases.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review across multiple databases.
• Screening and data extraction by two independent reviewers.
• Arbitration by a third reviewer for discrepancies.

Main Results:

• Analysis of 44 studies, primarily retrospective cohorts and case reports.
• Fibroadenomas identified as the most frequent breast lesion.
• Breast malignancies were rare but associated with high morbidity and mortality.
• Imaging modalities proved useful in diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Current understanding of adolescent breast masses is affirmed.
• Gaps in literature identified to guide future research.
• A structured clinical algorithm is proposed for judicious work-up.