Differential Diagnosis for 2cm Breast Swelling
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Fibroadenoma: This is the most likely diagnosis given the description of the breast swelling. Fibroadenomas are common benign breast tumors, especially in young women, and are often described as firm, mobile, and painless masses, which matches the presentation of a 2cm breast swelling.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cyst: A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the breast and can present as a palpable mass. While they are more common in older women, they can occur at any age and could be considered in the differential diagnosis for a breast swelling.
- Phyllodes tumor: Although less common than fibroadenomas, phyllodes tumors can present similarly as a firm, mobile mass. They can be benign, borderline, or malignant, making their consideration important in the differential diagnosis.
- Lipoma: A lipoma is a benign tumor composed of fat tissue and can occur in the breast, presenting as a soft, mobile mass. While less common in the breast compared to other parts of the body, it remains a possible diagnosis for a breast swelling.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)
- Breast cancer: Although less likely in younger women and given the description of the mass, breast cancer must always be considered in the differential diagnosis of a breast lump. It is crucial to not miss this diagnosis due to its significant implications on prognosis and treatment.
- Inflammatory breast cancer: This is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that can present with a palpable mass, among other symptoms like skin changes. Given its poor prognosis, it is essential to consider it in the differential diagnosis.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hamartoma: A breast hamartoma is a rare, benign tumor-like growth that can present as a palpable mass. It is composed of a mixture of glandular, fibrous, and fatty tissues.
- Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH): PASH is a rare benign condition of the breast that can form a mass. It is more commonly seen in premenopausal women and can mimic other breast lesions clinically and radiologically.
- Neurofibroma: Although rare in the breast, a neurofibroma (a benign nerve sheath tumor) can occur and present as a palpable mass. This would be more likely in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1.