Breast Cancer and Benign Breast Lumps in Teenage Girls

Breast lumps in teenage girls

Breast cancer is extremely rare in girls aged 13-19, so most research organizations do not keep this age group's breast cancer statistics. Nevertheless, teenagers may worry about these health problems. To reduce concerns, they should consult a doctor about any breast changes noticed.

They should also know that breast changes are not something to fear and most lumps are unrelated to breast cancer.

Facts about breast cancer in teenage girls

• Cancer should not be the first explanation considered for breast changes in this age group.
• A palpable lump alone does not establish cancer.
• Because it is so rare in teenagers, reliable survival statistics are unavailable.

Concerns about breast cancer in teenage girls

• Breast cancer risk decreases with younger age.
• Girls may find changes accompanying new growth during development unfamiliar. Some worry about cancer.
• Early development often begins as a lump under the nipple, potentially causing cancer concerns. These breast buds may be tender and trigger fears.
• Parents and doctors should explain and reassure girls about normal breast growth during this period, which can feel unsettling as part of development.

Although very rare, a teenager can develop breast cancer. As with all cancers, it occurs when normal cell growth and proliferation become uncontrolled. Over time, a tumor may form, damaging healthy tissue and spreading elsewhere.

Approximately 12% of women develop breast cancer during their lifetime. However, age is the most important risk factor. Fewer than 1% of cases occur in women under 30, and before age 30 a woman's risk is 0.44%.

- Developing breast cancer at a young age (detailed)

Causes of breast lumps in teenage girls

Fibroadenoma

A fibroadenoma is a benign breast tumor. Common in women in their 20s and 30s, these lumps have very low cancerous transformation risk. They are well-defined and range from very small to several centimeters.

Phyllodes Tumor (Cystosarcoma Phyllodes)

Phyllodes tumors grow rapidly but are nearly always benign. They account for less than 1% of breast tumors, but in 10% of cases can spread elsewhere. Women may have them removed.

Breast cysts

Cysts may be small pimple-like structures beneath the skin in breast tissue. Some women have numerous cysts, called fibrocystic breasts. This may cause concern and frequent medical consultations.

- Noncancerous breast lumps that increase cancer risk

Types of breast cancer

Like older women, teenagers with breast cancer may have different disease types.

In situ cancers

In situ means cancer is confined to epithelial cells lining milk lobules or ducts. These are easier to treat. Common forms are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS).

Invasive breast cancers

Cancer cells do not remain confined to their origin, but grow into tissue and have potential to spread to other organs.

- What are the types of breast cancer? (detailed)

Breast cancer symptoms in teenage girls

We no longer recommend monthly breast self-examination: it was found not to contribute significantly to early detection, while causing unnecessary worry and medical procedures. Instead, all women should take breast changes seriously, particularly new ones. Nevertheless, 90% of breast lumps are not cancer-related.

Common symptoms include:

• A breast mass / lump
• Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits or neck
• Unexplained changes in breast size, shape or symmetry
• Changes in breast or nipple skin
• Discharge unrelated to menstruation, pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Redness or swelling
• Skin retraction or dimpling
• An itchy, scaly rash

- Breast cancer symptoms (detailed)