On clinical exam, you detect a 2cm x 1cm non-tender, smooth, round, rubbery, mobile mass in the upper outer quadrant of your 32 year-old nulligravid patient’s right breast. This mass is most likely:
Explanation
Answer: C - A 2cm x 1cm non-tender, smooth, round, rubbery, mobile mass in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast of a 32 year-old nulligravid woman, detected on clinical exam, is most likely a fibroadenoma.
Fibroadenomas are the most common breast pathology found in reproductive-aged women, with an estimated prevalence of 9%. Breast cancer is less common in this age group, and on exam is usually firm and non-mobile. A clogged duct is uncommon in women who are not breastfeeding. Lesions with smooth, round, rubbery, mobile characteristics are typically benign, however, the finding of any breast mass warrants imaging and possible needle biopsy. Clinical exam is not adequate to distinguish benign lesions from those that are malignant.
