Lobules in normal breast tissue can be classified based on their degree of development, which may affect their susceptibility to carcinogenesis; few epidemiologic studies, however, have addressed this. Benign breast biopsy slides were reviewed by pathologists, and normal terminal duct lobular units were classified as having no type 1 lobules, mixed lobule types, or predominant type 1 and no type 3 lobules. These results provide preliminary evidence that lobule type may be an important marker of breast cancer risk in women with BBD. The lobules of the breast can be classified into four distinct types, reflecting different stages of morphologic development. Type 1 lobules are the least developed and are present in the immature female breast prior to menarche, whereas type 3 lobules are the most fully developed and are usually seen in the breasts of women under hormonal stimulation or during pregnancy. Type 2 lobules evolve from type 1 lobules and are intermediate in their degree of differentiation.
Fibrocystic breasts - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
We offer a widget that you can add to your website to let users look up cancer-related terms. Anatomy of the female breast. The nipple and areola are shown on the outside of the breast. The lymph nodes, lobes, lobules, ducts, and other parts of the inside of the breast are also shown. Menu Contact Dictionary Search. What Is Cancer? Cancer Statistics.
Lobule Type and Subsequent Breast Cancer Risk: Results from the Nurses’ Health Studies
As you learn about breast cancer, we will repeatedly reference the anatomy of the breast. Understanding the different parts and functions will help you better grasp the details of breast cancer. The female breast is mostly made up of a collection of fat cells called adipose tissue.
Fibrocystic breast changes lead to the development of fluid-filled round or oval sacs cysts and more prominent scar-like fibrous tissue, which can make breasts feel tender, lumpy or ropy. Fibrocystic breasts are composed of tissue that feels lumpy or rope-like in texture. Doctors call this nodular or glandular breast tissue. It's not at all uncommon to have fibrocystic breasts.