Female Breast Anatomy

The composition of female breasts is intricate, and some women have denser breast tissue than others, which can sometimes make it difficult to detect abnormalities. Each breast consists of:

• fat
• connective tissue
• lobes
• lobules
• ducts
• lymph nodes
• alveoli
• areola
• nipple

The lobules, ducts, alveoli, and areola function to produce and transport milk through the nipple in women who are breastfeeding. The fat and connective tissue give the breasts their size and shape, and the lymph nodes help to effectively drain waste through the lymphatic system. Any portion of the breast can undergo changes, which can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Changes in Breast Anatomy

Contrary to popular belief, not all changes to breast tissue or new symptoms signal breast cancer. In fact, many of the same symptoms of breast cancer are the result of benign changes. However, the only way to properly diagnose the nature of changes to breast tissue is through a comprehensive medical exam, and any changes should be reported immediately. Additionally, many symptoms are often undetectable and require diagnostic imaging tests like a mammogram.

The most common symptoms of both benign and potentially cancerous changes to normal breast tissue include:

• Lumps
• Thickening/redness/dimpling (“orange peel” effect) of the skin of the breast surrounding the nipple
• Pain that is unrelated to the menstrual cycle
• Nipple discharge

Often, especially in younger women, temporary breast symptoms are the result of hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle. While most changes are usually benign, it is best to be aware and report any noticeable changes in the breasts in order to be sure.