Category Archives: Breast Surgery

Main Clinical Manifestations of Breast Fibroadenoma

Breast fibroadenoma is a benign biphasic tumour composed of proliferating glandular and stromal elements. It is the commonest solid breast mass in women under 30 years and is strongly hormone-responsive. Most lesions are solitary and indolent, but multiple or rapidly enlarging variants require exclusion of phyllodes tumour or carcinoma. Painless, highly mobile noduleTypically 1–3 cm, firm, smooth, and well-circumscribed; the “slip sign”—easy displacement under the fingers—distinguishes it from malignant masses that adhere to surrounding tissue. Smooth, regular marginsPalpation reveals an ovoid or gently lobulated contour with a distinct edge; deep lesions may feel discoid when compressed against the chest wall.... Learn more

Main Clinical Manifestations of Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of the breast parenchyma, most frequently infectious in the lactational period and non-infectious or duct-centric in non-lactational settings. Recognition of its characteristic features permits prompt antimicrobial therapy and prevents progression to abscess formation. Painful indurationA localized, wedge-shaped area of firm, tender tissue develops rapidly, often in the upper outer quadrant. Pain is throbbing and exacerbated by movement or nursing. Erythema and oedemaBrilliant erythema with irregular borders spreads centrifugally; peau d’orange change reflects dermal lymphatic obstruction and interstitial oedema. Pyrexia and systemic responseTemperature ≥ 38.5 °C with chills, myalgia, and tachycardia indicates bacterial infection; rigors suggest... Learn more

Main Clinical Manifestations of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer arises from the terminal duct-lobular unit and may remain in-situ or invade surrounding tissue. Symptom patterns reflect tumour biology, anatomical location, and host response. Early recognition improves oncological outcome; therefore, any new, persistent breast change warrants triple assessment. Painless palpable massA solitary, firm-to-hard nodule with irregular or spiculated borders is most common. Fixation to pectoral fascia or skin reduces mobility and creates tethering. Nipple-areolar changesRecent nipple inversion, persistent eczematous scaling (Paget disease), or spontaneous serosanguinous/bloody discharge indicates underlying malignancy. Ulceration or fungation denotes locally advanced disease. Skin alterationsDimpling along Cooper ligaments, peau d’orange from lymphatic obstruction, or erythematous... Learn more

How is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)?

Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) was introduced into clinical practice in the early 1980s. Experience has shown it to be a safe, effective and non-invasive treatment; the majority of upper-urinary-tract stones can be managed in this way. Success depends not only on stone size but also on location, chemical composition and anatomical factors. Stone size: Renal stones < 20 mm in diameter should be considered first-line for ESWL. Stone location: Pelvic stones fragment most readily; upper- and mid-calyceal stones respond better than lower-pole stones. Stone composition: Struvite and calcium-oxalate-dihydrate stones break easily; uric-acid stones can be treated with ESWL combined with... Learn more