breast changes
Reply Cathy
Asking the patient about any breast changes including size change, dimpling, or nipple discharge would be helpful (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018). In addition, asking the patient about any family history of breast cancer and her menstrual cycle timing could be helpful. A breast exam would be appropriate during this patient’s physical exam. The patient reported feeling a lump in the shower. By the provider doing their own exam, the patient’s technique and lump placement could be verified (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018).
Some possible differential diagnosis for this patient include breast cancer, a cyst, fibroadenoma, lipoma, mastitis, and breast injury (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Getting a full health history and ordering tests would be needed to know for sure. Some tests that may be ordered include imaging to see what the potential lump looks like and placement. A mammogram is commonly used along with a biopsy to test the breast tissue cells to determine if they could be cancerous (Mayo Clinic, 2018).
Based on the results for this patient, it is possible that a referral could be necessary. This patient may need to see an oncologist or even a surgeon. If this patient has cancer, radiation or chemotherapy may be an necessary intervention (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Making sure this patient has access to information and support is also important when considering management of care.
Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). “What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer”. Retrieved from: (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/symptoms.htm
Mayo Clinic. (2018). Breast lumps. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/breast-lumps/basics/causes/sym-20050619 (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Reply Quiana
A 35-y.o. woman is seen in the office with a chief complaint of a breast mass. She states she found the lump when she was in the shower, and she is quite visibly distressed. Her medical history is unremarkable, although she reports that she has not had a mammogram. She takes no prescription medications.
What additional questions should you ask the patient and why?
