Which breast condition is characterized by lumps that change size with the menstrual cycle?

Which breast condition is characterized by lumps that change size with the menstrual cycle?

• A. Fibroadenomas
• B. Cysts
• C. Mastitis
• D. Breast cancer

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by lumps that change size with the menstrual cycle is cysts. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue. These cysts are often affected by hormonal changes throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, which can lead to fluctuations in their size and tenderness. During this cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall, influencing the fluid balance in the breast tissue and causing the cysts to become larger and more noticeable just before menstruation. In contrast, while fibroadenomas are also benign lumps in the breast, they typically do not change in size with menstrual cycles. Mastitis is an infection that results in swelling and pain, and it is generally associated with breastfeeding. Breast cancer can present as a lump, but it usually does not fluctuate in size with hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle. Thus, cysts are uniquely characterized by this cyclical behavior, making them the correct choice.

The condition characterized by lumps that change size with the menstrual cycle is cysts. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue. These cysts are often affected by hormonal changes throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, which can lead to fluctuations in their size and tenderness. During this cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall, influencing the fluid balance in the breast tissue and causing the cysts to become larger and more noticeable just before menstruation.

In contrast, while fibroadenomas are also benign lumps in the breast, they typically do not change in size with menstrual cycles. Mastitis is an infection that results in swelling and pain, and it is generally associated with breastfeeding. Breast cancer can present as a lump, but it usually does not fluctuate in size with hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle. Thus, cysts are uniquely characterized by this cyclical behavior, making them the correct choice.