Why are breast nodules lobulated?
Apr 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Xiaopeng
Introduction
Lobulated breast nodules are an imaging finding, usually caused by factors such as breast infection, fat necrosis, or fibroadenoma. The breasts are located on the chest and appear symmetrically on both sides, containing fat and other connective tissues. If the breast area suffers external trauma resulting in a clear wound, and the wound becomes invaded by external bacteria, an infection may occur.
Lobulated breast nodules are an imaging finding, usually caused by factors such as breast infection, fat necrosis, or fibroadenoma.
1. Breast infection
The breasts are located in the chest and appear symmetrically on both sides, containing fat and other connective tissues. If the breast area suffers trauma causing an obvious wound, and bacteria from the external environment invade the wound site, infection may occur. This could lead to the formation of nodules within the connective tissue. Because the lesion has a lobular structure with septa between the lobules, imaging examinations may reveal a lobulated appearance of the breast nodule. Patients are advised to take medications such as azithromycin tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or amoxicillin capsules under medical supervision.
2. Fat necrosis
The breast contains a significant amount of fat. If a previous surgical procedure in the breast area resulted in insufficient blood supply to local soft tissues, the fat may become ischemic and undergo necrosis. The necrotic fat can accumulate in one area, forming a breast nodule and producing this symptom. It is recommended to visit a hospital, where surgical intervention can be performed to drain the necrotic fat.
3. Fibroadenoma
This is a benign tumor primarily caused by abnormal estrogen levels in the body. Long-term use of medications containing estrogen may cause significant hormonal fluctuations, leading to excessive stimulation of breast tissue, resulting in fibroadenoma formation and abnormal proliferation of surrounding soft tissues, which can also cause the aforementioned symptoms. Surgical removal via excision is recommended.
In addition, lobulated breast nodules may also be caused by malignant breast tumors. It is advisable to maintain emotional stability and avoid excessive fatigue in daily life.
