Is a breast cyst a type of breast nodule?

Breast cysts and breast nodules are two different breast diseases. Breast cysts are benign cystic lesions, while breast nodules are a general term for any abnormal proliferation of breast tissue. The two are different. Breast cysts usually appear as cystic masses with mostly liquid contents, while breast nodules may be cystic, solid or mixed lesions, so they cannot be directly equated.

The formation of breast cysts may be related to an imbalance in estrogen levels in the body. It is common in women of childbearing age. Symptoms such as enlarged lumps and increased pain may occur before and after menstruation. The main causes include genetic factors, high stress in life, and endocrine disorders. Breast nodules are unidentified hyperplasias in breast tissue. Their causes are more complicated and may be caused by external stimuli such as inflammatory reactions (such as mastitis), fibroadenomas, breast cancer, or even long-term wearing of underwear that compresses the breast. Ultrasound examinations can be used to distinguish whether breast cysts are simple fluid cysts or mixed or solid nodules, so that targeted treatment can be carried out.

For the treatment of breast cysts, observation, aspiration therapy, or surgical resection is usually selected according to the size and symptoms of the cyst. Smaller and asymptomatic cysts usually do not require special treatment and can be reviewed regularly. Cysts with obvious symptoms can be relieved by needle aspiration of cystic fluid. If the cyst recurs or is suspected to be malignant in nature, surgical resection and pathological examination may be required. The treatment of breast nodules needs to be customized according to their nature (benign or malignant). Fibroadenomas can be removed through minimally invasive surgery, while malignant nodules such as breast cancer require a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, avoid staying up late, reduce mental stress, and reduce the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods. Regular breast self-examination and ultrasound screening can detect breast cysts or nodules early, so as to achieve early screening and early treatment. If any discomfort or lump growth is found in the breast, a specialist should be consulted in time to avoid delaying the best treatment time.