Study of Histopathological Changes in Fibroadenoma of the Breast

Abstract

Background: Fibroadenoma of the breast is a relatively frequently occurring tumor. Although often considered a benign tumour, several reports describe a higher risk of subsequent breast carcinoma in patients diagnosed with fibroadenoma. Increased risk depends on presence of complex changes within fibroadenoma, presence of hyperplasia and positive family history for breast cancer.
 Aims and Objectives: Our main aim was to study the histological variations within the fibroadenoma of the breast and also to identify those lesions with the possible risk of malignancy.
 Methods: Descriptive study of three years. A total of 250 cases of fibroadenoma were studied. Slides were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H & E) and were thoroughly reviewed. Slides were screened for proliferative epithelial changes, fibrocystic epithelial changes, stromal changes and various other changes such as foci of tubular adenoma and phyllodes tumour. Slides with invasive malignancies were excluded from the study.
 Result: Apocrine change among fibrocystic changes was the commonest variation within the fibroadenoma. Complex fibroadenoma, moderate and atypical ductal hyperplasia was seen in older age groups.
 Conclusion: Increased risk of breast cancer is seen patients with presence of hyperplasia and complex fibroadenoma of the breast. So exclusive study of histopathological changes in epithelial and stromal elements of fibroadenoma is required and are essential to be reported so as to alert the clinician for follow up of the patient. This will help in timely management to reduce morbidity and mortality.