Differential Diagnosis for a Tender Lump on the Breast
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Breast Cyst: A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the breast. It's a common condition that can cause a tender lump, especially if the cyst becomes large or ruptures. The tenderness often fluctuates with the menstrual cycle.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Fibrocystic Changes: These are benign breast conditions characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue. They can cause tender lumps and are very common in women of reproductive age.
- Breast Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can form in the breast tissue, often as a result of an infection. It presents as a tender, swollen lump and may be accompanied by fever and redness.
- Mastitis: This is an inflammation of the breast tissue, which can be infectious or non-infectious. It causes a tender, swollen area of the breast and can be accompanied by fever.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer: Although less likely to present as a tender lump (as most breast cancers are initially painless), inflammatory breast cancer can cause a tender, swollen breast. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis to ensure timely treatment if present.
- Infected Breast Implant: If the patient has breast implants, an infection around the implant can cause a tender lump and other symptoms like fever and redness.
Rare Diagnoses
- Fat Necrosis: This is a rare condition where the fatty tissue in the breast becomes damaged, often due to trauma, surgery, or radiation. It can cause a tender lump that might be mistaken for a tumor.
- Granulomatous Mastitis: A rare inflammatory condition of the breast characterized by granulomatous inflammation. It can cause tender lumps and may mimic breast cancer or infection.
- Phyllodes Tumor: Although most are benign, phyllodes tumors can be malignant. They are rare and can present as a rapidly growing, tender lump in the breast.