A Cyst Concern

I am a 35 year old female with small breasts.  On Oct. 1, 2002(6th day of my cycle), I had my yearly physical with a breast exam.  The doctor said I was clear of any cysts, lumps etc.  On March 16th (17th day of my cycle) I found a pea size, round, moveable lump on my left breast by my nipple (it can only be felt laying down, not in the shower).  I saw the doctor and she said that it has all the characteristics of a cyst, but she would like to send me for an ultrasound to put my mind at ease.  As I age, my breasts increase in tenderness before my period, yet this lump is not sore.  My questions to you are:

1.  Should I be overly concerned?  Do you agree with my Dr?
2.  I have read that vitamin E can help with cysts, what dose should I begin with?
3.  If this is cancer, what stage does it sound like, Stage I, Stage II  (remembering that it was not there in October.

I thank you in advance for your help.

Signed,
Very Concerned

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Fontill, As this lump has appeared so quickly and is moveable it has more characteristics of a cyst than a malignancy but you can't tell that from only a physical exam.  An ultrasound is a good test to help to determine whether this is fluid filled or not.  A cyst is fluid-filled.  Some suggestions  for treatment of discomfort from cysts have been use of Vitamin E up to 800units a day, avoidance of caffeine, limit of salt intake, reduce dietary fat.  There is no specific formula.

It is impossible to predict a stage of cancer based on an appearance of a lump.

[surgeon]

if a lump can be felt, it's a lot more expeditious to simply poke a small needle in it: if it's a cyst, fluid comes out and not only do you know what it is right away, the cyst is gone!! Vitamin E and decreasing caffeine may lessen the soreness that often comes with cystic breasts. It probably doesn't decrease the chances of getting them. Some evidence that taking elemental iodine, as is kelp pills from a healthfoood store, may actually decrease frequency of cysts, as well as the soreness.