What to look for during a monthly self breast exam...

[Mandible]

I was just wondering if someone could specifically tell me what to look out for when I am doing self breast exams every month. I am overly concerned about breast cancer, and want to be sure to know what to be on the lookout for.  I have cysts in both of my breast, but how do I tell the difference between a cyst and any other lump that may be of concern?

Any help is appreciated,
Thanks so much

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Mandible, When doing a breast self-exam (BSE) what you are looking for is a lump that stands out as different from the rest of your breast tissue.  Becoming more familiar with your breasts by doing BSE each month will help you tell the difference between your normal “lumpiness” and what may be a change.   The best time to do BSE is 2 or 3 days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen.  If you feel something in one breast that appears unusual or different from before, check to see if it is present in your other breast.  If the same structure is in the same place in both breasts, the chances are good that your breasts are normal.  If you find a lump a few days before or during your menstrual period, reexamine your breasts when your period ends.  

For more information on how to perform self breast exam there are many resources available that describe the procedure, along with pictures and diagrams that are helpful.  One such resource is the American Cancer Society.  If you go to their website at www.cancer.org and type "breast self exam" in the search box a document "How to do breast self exam"  will be available to read.  Another resource is the Cleveland Clinic Web site (www.ccf.org) search under breast health - written materials - breast self exam is a document describing how to do breast self exam.  Also ask your health care professional at your next physical exam if they would walk you through the breast exam and explain what you are feeling in your breasts.    This may give you more confidence when you are doing the exam on your own.

[leah1234]

I found a mass in my breast and it was very easy to tell that it felt different than any other area. I had always wondered if I woould be able to tell but when something was there, it was very easy to feel. I hope this helps

[lizziecee]

The simple answer is that you can't tell the difference between a cyst and a malignant tumour. Only a pathologist can differentiate. A cyst can be aspirated by a nurse/technician or doctor, but a biopsy is the only way to tell if a mass or lump is malignant. Well, that's what my surgeon told me, for what it is worth.