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Diagnosing Noncancerous (Benign) Breast Conditions
How are benign breast conditions and infections diagnosed?
To diagnose a breast condition, your healthcare provider will take your complete health history. Your provider may also:
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Do a complete physical exam to:
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Locate any lump and feel its features, such as texture, size, and relationship to the skin and chest muscles
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Look for changes in the nipples or the skin of the breast
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Check lymph nodes under the arm and above the collarbones
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Request imaging tests, including:
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Request a lab microscopic exam of nipple discharge if there is nipple discharge other than breastmilk
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Request a ductogram X-ray or MRI ductogram of the nipples if there is nipple discharge other than breastmilk
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Consider a hormonal evaluation if the nipple discharge is milky
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Request a biopsy of tissue removed from the suspicious area
What are the different types of biopsy?
Image-guided biopsies. Those aided by ultrasound or other imaging techniques, including:
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Fine needle aspiration. A very fine or thin needle is guided into the suspicious area. A small sample of the tissue is removed.
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Core needle biopsy. A larger needle is guided into the lump to remove a small core (cylinder) of tissue.
Surgical biopsy. A surgical procedure is used to remove all or part of a lump.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Diane Horowitz MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer:
Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
Date Last Reviewed:
1/1/2023
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