Is it normal for a 12 year old to have breast fibroids?

Breast fibroids are not common at the age of 12, but they may occur and are usually related to hormone fluctuations in the body, such as excessive estrogen secretion. It is recommended to go to the hospital for examination in time to rule out malignant lesions and choose observation or treatment according to the doctor's advice.

1). Causes of Breast Fibroids

Breast fibroids are a common benign breast tumor, but the onset of this condition at the age of 12 is usually closely related to changes in hormone levels. During puberty, estrogen levels rise sharply, which may stimulate excessive growth of breast tissue and induce fibroids. Genetic factors may also play a role. If there is a history of breast disease in the family, the risk of developing breast fibroids will increase. Certain lifestyle factors, such as a high-calorie, high-fat diet, may further aggravate the response of breast tissue.

2). How to diagnose breast fibroids

The diagnosis of breast fibroids needs to be supported by clinical examination and imaging methods. Usually, the doctor will feel the size and shape of the fibroids by palpation. Breast fibroids often appear as smooth, movable, solid masses. Furthermore, ultrasound examination can help distinguish fibroids from cysts and even malignant lesions. If the imaging results are still unclear or abnormalities are found, a puncture biopsy may be required to confirm the nature of the pathology.

3). Treatment of breast fibroids

For younger patients, with mild symptoms and small fibroids (generally less than 2 cm), observation and follow-up are usually performed, with regular ultrasound examinations to confirm changes in the mass. If the mass continues to grow or abnormal symptoms occur, treatment may be required. Specific treatment methods include the following:

-Minimally invasive surgery: such as vacuum-assisted breast biopsy system (VABB) to remove fibroids, with minimal trauma and quick recovery.

- Traditional surgical excision: Suitable for larger fibroids or suspected malignant lesions. The surgery requires local or general anesthesia and may leave surgical scars.

- Hormone regulation therapy: Some cases may be treated non-surgically by adjusting endocrine hormone levels, such as taking medication prescribed by a doctor to control estrogen levels, but this method requires long-term monitoring.

4). Health management and prevention

Although breast fibroids may not be completely preventable, the risk can be reduced through good diet and lifestyle habits. For example, avoid high-fat diets, exercise properly to maintain weight; try to avoid drinking health drinks or medicines containing hormones, and avoid long-term use of hormone-containing skin care products. You can help children develop a good awareness of breast health, conduct regular self-examinations, and inform parents in a timely manner if there are any abnormalities.

Although it is not common for a 12-year-old to have breast fibroids, the problem is usually benign and parents do not need to worry too much. The key is to go to the hospital for examination in time to confirm the nature and evaluate the treatment plan under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, pay attention to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which will help reduce the probability of breast-related diseases.