Question

A client contacts the nurse and describes some soft and movable masses she felt in her breasts that become enlarged during menstruation. The nurse should be aware that the client is most likely describing which of the following?

A. cancer of the breast
B. fibroids of the breast
C. fibrocystic disease of the breast
D. hyperplasia of the breast

Answer 1

The client is most likely describing fibrocystic disease of the breast, which is a benign condition related to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle and results in the enlargement and tenderness of cysts in the breasts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client is most likely describing fibrocystic disease of the breast. This condition is characterized by breast tissue that responds to hormonal fluctuations, particularly those of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle. As a result, soft and movable masses or lumps, which are typically cysts, can become enlarged and may cause tenderness particularly in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. Fibrocystic breast changes are quite common and are considered benign, but it is advisable for women to perform regular breast self-exams to monitor for any unusual changes that might indicate a more serious condition, such as breast cancer. In contrast, breast cancer lumps are often hard, immovable, and can appear at any time regardless of the menstrual cycle. Additionally, fibroids of the breast are very rare since fibroids typically occur in the uterus, and hyperplasia of the breast refers to an overgrowth of cells that is not usually associated with the regular hormonal patterns of menstruation.