The difference between breast cysts and hyperplasia

Breast cysts and hyperplasia are two common benign breast diseases. The main differences lie in pathological characteristics and clinical manifestations. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sac-like structures that are usually well-circumscribed ； Breast hyperplasia is the excessive growth of glandular tissue, often accompanied by periodic pain. There are differences between the two in pathogenesis, symptom manifestations, examination methods and treatment methods.

1. Pathological differences:

Breast cysts are formed by the expansion of breast ducts to form a closed fluid sac, which appears as a round or oval mass upon palpation. B-ultrasound shows an echo-free area. Breast hyperplasia is an increase in the number of acinar and ductal epithelial cells, accompanied by connective tissue hyperplasia, and imaging manifestations are disordered gland structure. The contents of cysts are mostly clear or turbid liquid, while the hyperplastic tissue is composed of solid glandular components.

2. Symptom characteristics:

Patients with cysts often experience single or multiple active masses, which may be swollen and painful before menstruation, and the fluid can be extracted by puncture. Hyperplasia usually manifests as diffuse nodularity in both breasts. The pain is obviously related to the menstrual cycle, and some are accompanied by nipple discharge. Cyst volume changes are small, and hyperplastic nodules may increase or decrease with fluctuations in hormone levels.

3. Inspection method:

Breast ultrasound is the first choice for identification. The cyst appears as an echo-free area with smooth borders and enhanced echo at the rear.； Hyperplasia shows heterogeneous hyperechoic and hypoechoic nodules. Patients over 40 years old are recommended to undergo additional mammography examination. The cysts appear as round low-density shadows, and the proliferation can be seen as scattered calcification points. Complex cysts require needle biopsy to rule out malignant transformation.

4. Pathogenesis:

Cyst formation is related to local duct obstruction and fluid retention, and abnormal estrogen levels are one of the causes. Hyperplasia is mainly caused by endocrine disorders, and continued stimulation of estrogen leads to incomplete involution of the glands. Long-term mental stress, high-fat diet and other factors may aggravate the development of both diseases.

5. Processing principles:

Asymptomatic small cysts are usually observed and followed up, and fluid can be aspirated if the cyst is larger than 3 cm or has symptoms of compression. Hyperplasia is mainly treated symptomatically. If the pain is obvious, traditional Chinese medicine can be used to treat it, such as Rupixiao Tablets. Severe nodules require surgical removal. Both need to be reviewed every 6-12 months, and daily intake of methylxanthine-containing foods should be avoided.

It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule and moderate exercise, consume 300 grams of dark green vegetables every day to supplement dietary fiber, and choose a support bra without steel rings to reduce local compression. Perform breast self-examination 3-5 days after the end of menstruation every month. If you find any abnormalities such as enlarged lumps or skin depressions, seek medical advice promptly. Women over 35 years old should undergo professional breast examinations every year, and those with family history need to shorten the screening interval. Controlling the intake of animal fats and supplementing with appropriate amounts of vitamin E and B vitamins can help maintain breast health.