Cyst./Lump or plain old breast tissue? How can I tell?

[OhNelly2]

Hello
I have had fibrocystic issues in past ... I have had bleeding from right breast resulting in excisional biopsy ... and removal of ducts -- all good/benign. Some time after that a small lump was felt on left breast - at approx 1:00. Ultrasound showed it to be simple cyst.

Approx 3 mos ago I found another "something" at about 9pm, prett much between nipple and outside of breast. This one feels different. ... not necessarily in a scary way ... but in a "what the heck is it" way. Has survived 3 mens. cycles with no change. Not a tiny pea like the first cyst ... and harder to detect if lying down. Easist felt when standing and checking from top to bottom in a linear fashion. Seems when I lie down it hides under muscle or something. Seems hard and kind of more oval than round ... overall different than cyst but still doesnt strike me as sinister for some reason. Could it be regular ole tissue? When I check while standing, I do both sides at same time to compare ... right side has no such tissue in this spot.  I wonder if I my constant checking makes it more prominent?

If it makes a difference I am thin and very small breasted and almost 40 years old. I do not have lumpy breasts. (Original cyst is still there as well).

How can I tell if this is a cyst or just regular breast tissue?

Thannks in advance...

[OhNelly2]

Yes it is def. the age for Mammograms!   I have been getting regular mammos since I was 35.  My OB is very proactive. :)  I am due for my next in January so not too far off.

[boninclyde]

I can't express to women enough that it would be better to get it checked than to wait. Then you would know for sure and not have to worry. Isn't it time for your mamograms to start anyways?

[OhNelly2]

Thanks very much for your response.  Actually I have been through a few cycles with this - and no change as far as I can tell.  I do see the doctor again in 6mos, would it be reasonable to just monitor for the next 6mos?

TIA.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear OhNelly2,  Just by feel it is difficult to determine whether a lump is a fluid-filled cyst or solid tissue.  An ultrasound is a test used for determining whether an area is fluid filled or solid.  If this area is changing and/or causing you concern you may want to be checked by your doctor.