Histomorphological Spectrum of Benign Breast Lumps in a Tertiary Care Center

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Benign breast diseases comprise diverse pathological conditions that present as palpable breast lumps and account for many breast-related clinical consultations. These non-malignant lesions often mimic breast cancer clinically and radiologically, creating anxiety for patients and diagnostic challenges for clinicians. Histopathological evaluation is critical in identifying these lesions' nature and guiding appropriate management. This study aimed to evaluate the histomorphological spectrum of benign breast lumps in patients at a tertiary care center. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Surgery at Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January to December 2025. A total of 175 patients with clinically suspected benign breast lumps who underwent surgical excision or biopsy were included. Histopathological examination was performed using standard hematoxylin and eosin staining techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The majority of patients were younger than 40 years (70.9%), with a mean age of 35.1 ± 11.0 years. Inflammatory and infectious lesions were the most common category, accounting for 59.4% of cases, with chronic breast abscess being the most frequent diagnosis. Fibrocystic changes constituted 21.1% of lesions, while benign neoplasms accounted for 16.0%. Fibroadenoma was the most common benign tumor, representing 12.6% of cases. A small proportion of cases consisted of other rare benign lesions including epidermal inclusion cyst and granulomatous inflammation. Conclusion: Benign breast lesions show a wide histomorphological spectrum, with inflammatory conditions being the most prevalent. Histopathological examination remains essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical management of breast lumps.