Large mass/swelling in left breast

[dmcg]

For the past year or two i have had severe aching pain in my left breast/rib area.  I noticed a mass/swelling in the bottom area of my left breast, which runs along the line of your underwire, about 2 inches long.  This is kinda behind the breast. It feels like it could be attached to the rib?  It is very sore to touch and i have had it checked before by ultrasound. I was told it is mussle tissue.  Obviously i am very concerned about breast cancer but reading some comments on this site has made me think i could have tietze syndrome?  It seems to hurt more when i am stressed and I often have to remove my bra as it feels very uncomfortable. Can anyone shed some light on this?

[dmcg]

Dennis
I have called three different hospitals about getting a mammogram done but as i am only 26 they will only preform an ultrasound.  Is this enough to pick up anything if it was cancer?  Also is there any other treatment for Tietze Syndrome, i think i read about injections to the area.
My symtoms include dull aching pain to left breast and rib area above and below also a slight burning stringing pain within the breast that travels from inside through to my nipple, the pain also travels round the side of my body in the line my bra would follow and up into my left shoulder blade. I had the flu about three weeks ago and it has been constant since then whereas before i would have it on and off for three weeks of the month.  Is there a certain blood test i can ask my GP to send me for to diagnose Tietze?

[Dennis MD]

Hi again.
I agree that breast cancer is rare in women below 30 years of age.  According to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, the incidence of breast cancer among women aged 20 to 34 years was around 1.9% from year 2001 to 2005.
Costochondritis or Tietze syndrome presents with chest pain and there is some point tenderness when the chest area is palpated.  Trauma to the chest area is a common cause of this.  Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can help relieve the discomfort.
Regards.

[dmcg]

Thanks for your comment, I visited my GP today and will be getting a date for mammograph in the morning.  I am quite worried but i am trying to keep positive as i have heard cancerous lumps are rarely ever painful.  I am only 26 and heard it is rare in women under 30 too but it is still in the back of my mind.  I have no family history of Breast Cancer which is also a good sign i suppose.
My doctor didn't seem to mention anything about Tietze syndrome, is it common for women with this to experience breast pain?  Also is there any treatment to relieve pain.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Tietze syndrome can be an explanation for to the chest pain you are experiencing now.  However, you mentioned that you can palpate a mass on your left breast.  I believe that warrants further examination to determine the cause.  You may need to undergo tests like mammography, breast ultrasound, or even biopsy so as to have a definite diagnosis.
Take care.