Section: Breast Curriculum: Curriculum, page 9
Definition
- Complex fibroadenomas present as masses on physical examination or as nodules on mammography or ultrasound. However, on pathology, these contain other proliferative changes, such as sclerosing adenosis, duct epithelial hyperplasia, epithelial calcification, or papillary apocrine changes
- They are associated with a slightly increased risk of cancer when multicentric proliferative changes are present in the surrounding glandular tissue
Management
- Controversial
- While some believe that complex fibroadenomas warrant complete removal for histologic examination, others suggest that they can be managed conservatively following core biopsy
- The American Society of Breast Surgeons recommends excision in these cases