What is the diagnosis and recommended follow-up for a patient with a 2.8 x 1.4 x 3.5 cm nearly isoechoic, heterogeneous lesion in the left breast, detected by ultrasound (u/s) at 1:00, 3 cm from the nipple, with benign features and no increased color flow, classified as Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category 3?

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Last updated: May 13, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Left Breast Lesion

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Fibroadenoma: This is a common benign breast tumor, especially in younger women. The description of the lesion as nearly isoechoic, heterogeneous, and lacking increased color flow is consistent with a fibroadenoma. The size and location of the lesion also support this diagnosis.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Cyst: Although the lesion is described as solid, some breast cysts can appear heterogeneous and isoechoic on ultrasound. However, the lack of increased color flow and the patient's palpation of a nodule make this less likely.
    • Fibrocystic change: This is a common condition characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue. While it can cause palpable nodules, the ultrasound findings in this case are more suggestive of a discrete lesion.
    • Hamartoma: A benign breast tumor that can appear as a heterogeneous, isoechoic lesion on ultrasound. However, hamartomas are less common than fibroadenomas.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)
    • Phyllodes tumor: Although rare, phyllodes tumors can appear similar to fibroadenomas on ultrasound. They can be benign, borderline, or malignant, and it's essential to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially malignant lesion.
    • Breast cancer: While the ultrasound features are benign, it's crucial to remember that some breast cancers can appear isoechoic and heterogeneous. The lack of increased color flow and the BI-RADS 3 classification suggest a low suspicion for malignancy, but it's essential to follow up as recommended to ensure the lesion does not change over time.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which can appear as a heterogeneous, isoechoic lesion on ultrasound. However, lipomas are less common in the breast than in other parts of the body.
    • Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH): A rare benign breast lesion that can appear as a heterogeneous, isoechoic mass on ultrasound. PASH is often associated with a palpable abnormality and can be difficult to distinguish from other breast lesions.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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