Medical management of mammary dysplasia

As a primary care physician for women, the gynecologist frequently is faced with management of patients who have benign breast disease. Mammary dysplasia, or fibrocystic disease, clinically presents a difficult management problem, both in terms of relieving the patients' symptomatology and of detecting occult malignancy. Traditionally, diuretics, salt restriction, and hormone therapies have been recommended. Recently, data concerning nutritional impact on this disease process, including methylxanthine restriction and tocopherol therapy, have been reported. New, effective pharmacologic agents also are now available. This article reviews the efficacy of these therapeutic regimens and recommends a rational approach for the management of patients with mammary dysplasia.