Women's health is a prerequisite for the birth of offspring. That is why medicine pays special attention to it. Various screenings are carried out annually, which allow us to identify pathological conditions in the early stages. Unfortunately, female diseases continue to grow. This is due to the influence of various environmental factors, as well as bad habits. One of the most common pathologies is diffuse fibroadenomatosis of the mammary glands. This disease refers to benign neoplasms. Due to the fact that the process can develop into breast cancer, timely diagnosis and treatment are necessary. Diffuse fibroadenomatosis of the mammary glands is otherwise called mastopathy and is found in most women of young and middle age. Most often, this disease develops after a period of breastfeeding, as well as with insufficient thyroid hormones. If it is detected in time, then dangerous consequences and surgical treatment can be avoided.
Factors contributing to the development of fibroadenomatosis
Diffuse fibroadenomatosis of the mammary glands is a benign neoplasm that can capture both one and both breasts. The causes of this disease are not known. However, there are a number of factors that affect breast tissue. These include: physical, chemical and hormonal effects. There is an assumption that fibroadenomatosis occurs in girls who often wear underwear that compresses the mammary glands. Benign degeneration is also associated with the influence of chemicals, since the development of mastopathy in women working in hazardous industries occurs much more often. Ladies with bad habits fall into the same category. The main risk factor is hormonal failure. Excessive effect of estrogen on the body is observed with various diseases of the female genital organs, early onset of menstruation, late development of menopause. Hormonal disorders can occur with the misuse of oral contraceptives, frequent childbirth or, conversely, their absence. Another risk factor is hypothyroidism.
Types of breast fibroadenomatosis
Diffuse fibroadenomatosis of the mammary glands can be homogeneous and mixed. It depends on what tissue in the chest has undergone excessive growth. Depending on this, fibrotic and cystic mastopathy are distinguished. In the first case, we are talking about connective tissue. Diffuse cystic fibroadenomatosis develops with the growth of glandular tissue. Most often, a mixed version develops. In addition to diffuse proliferation of breast tissue, there are local changes. Single fibroadenomas need to be differentiated with breast cancer. The only method of treatment is surgical removal.
Changes in the mammary gland with fibroadenomatosis
Breast density on palpation depends on what type of mastopathy prevails. If most of the connective tissue is occupied , then the gland will be denser, with nodular formations (lumps). Their size may vary. Diffuse cystic fibroadenomatosis of the mammary glands is characterized by the fact that softer masses, sacs filled with fluid, are palpated in the chest. They may also have different sizes and locations. In order to notice changes in breast tissue, it is necessary to conduct a monthly examination. Each woman can execute it independently. To do this, you need to carefully feel the chest around the entire circumference, and then more carefully - in each quadrant.
Having noticed the signs of diffuse fibroadenomatosis, you need to consult a mammologist. An additional examination will help determine the type of mastopathy.
Diagnostic methods for fibroadenomatosis
The main method for detecting fibroadenomatosis is palpation of the mammary glands. The technique of its implementation should be owned by every woman. In addition, palpation can be performed by a mammologist, gynecologist or therapist. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to detect moderate diffuse fibroadenomatosis, since formations with it can be very small. In order to clarify the type of mastopathy, as well as determine the tactics of treatment, it is necessary to conduct a series of instrumental studies. Currently, the x-ray method is widely used - mammography. In addition, an ultrasound scan is performed, which is more preferred for young women.
Treatment of diffuse fibroadenomatosis
In order to get rid of mastopathy, it is necessary to find out the main reason for its appearance. Only the elimination of a damaging factor will help completely defeat diffuse fibroadenomatosis. Treatment of the thyroid gland, genitals, refusal of harmful effects (smoking, chemical production, uncomfortable lingerie), as well as the correct use of contraceptives are considered the main methods. In addition, symptomatic therapy is used. It includes the use of antiestrogenic drugs: "Tamoxifen", "Fareston." In addition, herbal decoctions and diet are recommended.
Prevention of neoplasms of the mammary glands
To avoid breast diseases, it is necessary to constantly examine and palpate the breast. Women over 40 years old must undergo a mammogram, regardless of whether they have complaints or not. In addition, you need to avoid adverse factors and hypothermia, eat right and wear comfortable underwear. When using hormonal contraceptives during the period of menopause, it is necessary to be observed annually by a gynecologist and mammologist.