What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Mammary Leiomyoma

What is Leiomyoma of Breast? (Definition/Background Information)

• Leiomyoma of Breast is a benign tumor of breast affecting the nipple and areola. It is observed in young, middle-aged, and older individuals. A leiomyoma is a benign smooth muscle tumor that can develop anywhere in the body, but the breast is an uncommon site
• The cause and risk factors for Leiomyoma of Breast is unknown. The signs and symptoms of Leiomyoma of Breast may include a growing mass near the nipple-areola region and occasional pain. Small-sized tumors may be asymptomatic and show no signs and symptoms
• Leiomyoma of Breast is treated through a surgical excision, per the healthcare provider’s recommendation. The prognosis is excellent with its complete removal, since it is a benign tumor. However, periodic checkups and screening mammograms are advised

Who gets Leiomyoma of Breast? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Leiomyoma of Breast constitute much less than 1% of all benign breast tumor types
• The age of presentation of Leiomyoma of Breast is usually between 30-70 years; though it can be infrequently seen in older children, adolescents, and much older adults (over 80 years of age)
• All racial and ethnic groups are affected and no specific predilection is seen

What are the Risk Factors for Leiomyoma of Breast? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no definitive risk factors for Leiomyoma of Breast are known

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Leiomyoma of Breast? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Leiomyoma of Breast is currently not clearly understood
• Certain gene mutations have also been reported in the tumors. Research is being performed to determine how these mutations contribute to the formation of the tumors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Leiomyoma of Breast?

The signs and symptoms of Leiomyoma of Breast may include:

• A benign slow-growing lump in a single breast; typically, only one breast is affected
• Most tumors arise from around the nipple or areolar region (superficial tumors); a few involve the entire breast and may be found deep inside the breast
• The tumors are firm, sometimes well-defined, and can be felt by touch
• The tumors may ‘move around’ when touched and are painful in most cases
• The size of the tumor may range from a few mm to nearly 15 cm
• Small tumors remain asymptomatic and may be missed during a mammogram screening

How is Leiomyoma of Breast Diagnosed?

Leiomyoma of Breast may be diagnosed in the following manner:

• Complete physical examination with comprehensive medical and family history evaluation
• Breast exam to check for any lumps or unusual signs in the breasts
• Mammogram: A mammogram uses x-rays to provide images of the breast. These benign tumors are identified as a mammogram mass, which may or may not be associated with microcalcification. The mammography findings may raise enough suspicion to warrant a tissue biopsy
• Breast ultrasound scan: Using high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the breast, the type of tumor, whether fluid-filled cyst or solid mass type, may be identified
• Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the breast
• Breast biopsy:
  • A biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
  • Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
  • Sometimes, the pathologist may perform additional studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains and molecular studies to assist in the diagnosis

Biopsies are the only methods used to determine whether an abnormality is benign or cancerous. These are performed by inserting a needle into a breast mass and removing cells or tissues, for further examination. There are different types of biopsies:

• Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of breast mass: In this method, a very thin needle is used to remove a small amount of tissue. FNAB cannot help definitively diagnose Leiomyoma of Breast. It only helps determine if the tumor is malignant or benign. This can help the healthcare provider discuss and plan the next steps (with respect to diagnosis and treatment)
• Core needle biopsy of breast mass: A wider needle is used to withdraw a small cylinder of tissue from an abnormal area of the breast
• Open tissue biopsy of breast mass: A surgical procedure used less often than needle biopsies, it is used to remove a part or all of a breast lump for analysis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Leiomyoma of Breast?

There may not be any significant complications of Leiomyoma of Breast.

• However, in some cases, the condition may cause emotional stress due to concerns of a malignancy
• An incomplete removal of the tumor may result in its recurrence

How is Leiomyoma of Breast Treated?

The following treatment methods for Leiomyoma of Breast may be considered:

• A wait and watch approach may be considered for asymptomatic tumors
• A simple surgical excision and removal of the entire tumor is normally sufficient treatment and is the treatment of choice
  • The surgical procedure performed is known as a breast lumpectomy. It is a surgical procedure to remove the breast lump, which may be done under a general anesthetic
  • During the surgery, a small incision is made in the skin of the breast and a hollow probe that is connected to a vacuum, inserted
  • The breast tissue is sucked through the probe, using vacuum, until the lump has been removed
• Follow-up care with frequent breast self-examinations and screening mammograms may be recommended by the healthcare provider

How can Leiomyoma of Breast be Prevented?

The development of Leiomyoma of Breast is difficult to prevent. Currently, no specific preventive measures are available to avoid Leiomyomas of Breast.

In general, however, it is important to be aware of certain risk factors for breast tumors, which include:

• The individual must regularly conduct breast self-exams, to ensure that no lumps are present
• Maintain a healthy body weight and exercise regularly
• Implement and follow a well-balanced diet; a high intake of fiber via fresh fruits and vegetables helps in a healthy lifestyle
• Avoid or completely stop smoking
• Drink alcohol in moderation; limit to one or (maximum) two drinks a day
• Limit combination hormone therapy used to treat symptoms of menopause. It is advised that individuals be aware of the potential benefits and risks of hormone therapy

What is the Prognosis of Leiomyoma of Breast? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Leiomyoma of Breast is generally excellent on a surgical excision and removal of the tumor
• Periodic follow-up check-ups with screening may be required

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Leiomyoma of Breast:

The following DoveMed website links are useful resources for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/womens-health/

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/