Atypical Hyperplasia (Breast)

Atypical hyperplasia is a benign condition in the breast in which abnormal cells are present within the breast tissue. The cells are present in an irregular pattern and are different from normal breast cells. Atypical hyperplasia increases the possibility of acquiring breast cancer in the future even though it is not malignant. There are two types of atypical hyperplasia. Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), which occurs in milk ducts, and atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH). It also occurs in lobules, which are milk-producing glands. Early detection and monitoring of this disease condition are important in controlling it and preventing its progression into breast cancer.

At FitwellHub, we utilize telemedicine to provide specialized care for conditions like atypical hyperplasia of the breast. It ensures timely access to expert consultations and personalized treatment plans for patients across Pakistan. Our services bridge the gap between advanced diagnostics and remote healthcare needs, promoting early detection and better outcomes.

Symptoms

Atypical hyperplasia may be symptomless. It occurs during regular breast imaging, but some people may feel they have this if the following symptoms are noted:

• Breast Lump: In some cases, the condition may present as a palpable tumor in the breast. It may be identified during a self-exam or by a health care provider.
• Tenderness: Some individuals are prone to breast tenderness, especially around the area where the abnormal cell growth is occurring.
• Abnormal Mammogram: Atypical hyperplasia is typically identified through an irregular mammogram. It shows suspicious areas of dense tissue or calcification within the breast.
• Nipple Discharge: In rare cases, women feel or even experience nipple discharge due to alteration in breast tissue caused by atypical hyperplasia.

When to See a Doctor

If you have any abnormalities in the breasts, ranging from lumps to nipple discharge or persistent pain, you should consult a healthcare provider. It is usually discovered through routine screenings of the breast; that’s why most physicians recommend their patients undergo regular mammograms and clinical breast exams. Early detection allows for better monitoring and reduces the risk of progression to breast cancer.

We offer comprehensive breast health services, including diagnostic imaging and consultations. Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, happier you? Book an appointment with us today, and let our experts guide you on your wellness journey! 

Causes

The causes of atypical hyperplasia are not known, but the following factors may contribute to abnormal cell formation in the breast tissues:

1- Hormonal Imbalances

Dysregulation of hormonal levels, particularly of the estrogen hormone, may cause atypical hyperplasia by stimulating abnormal cell growth due to hormonal changes in the breast tissue.

2- Genetic Mutations

Some genetic mutations, for example, the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, lead to an increased risk of abnormal breast cell development and atypical hyperplasia.

3- Family History

If there is cancer or atypical hyperplasia in your family history, the possibility of developing the disease is higher. The relatedness may be partially due to genetics.

4- Environmental Exposure

Radiation exposure and other environmental factors, including some chemicals, can contribute to atypical cell growth in the breasts.

5- Age

Atypical hyperplasia can occur in most women after age 40 because the cell growth patterns may change, increasing the risk of abnormal cell development.

Risk Factors

The following are some of the risk factors of atypical hyperplasia of the breast:

1- Personal History of Benign Breast Conditions: Women who have previously been diagnosed with benign breast conditions such as fibrocystic changes are at an increased risk for developing atypical hyperplasia.

2- Hormone Replacement Therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, particularly estrogen, increases the likelihood of developing atypical hyperplasia and breast cancer.

Complications

Atypical hyperplasia causes several complications if left untreated or uncontrolled:

1- Increased Risk of Breast Cancer

Atypical hyperplasia in women increases the risk of developing breast cancer. According to some studies, the risk is four to five times higher.

2- Multiple Breast Biopsies

The diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia requires multiple biopsies and regular check-ups to monitor whether the condition has progressed to cancer.

3- Psychological Stress

The diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia causes anxiety and stress because patients face the uncertainty of their increased risk of developing breast cancer.

4- Surgical Interventions

In some cases, doctors recommend surgical removal of the affected breast tissue to reduce the risk of cancer, especially if the atypical hyperplasia is widespread. 

5- Progression to Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

Rarely, atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) may progress to ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). It is a non-invasive form of breast cancer that requires treatment. 

Prevention

Although atypical hyperplasia may not always be prevented, the following lifestyle changes and preventive measures can minimize the risk:

1- Regular Breast Screenings

Routine mammograms and breast exams may detect atypical hyperplasia early, which will further allow for close monitoring and prevent further progression to breast cancer.

2- Healthy Diet

Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with regular exercise, decreases the risk of developing atypical hyperplasia and other breast diseases.

3- Limit Alcohol Consumption

Reducing the intake of alcohol limits the risk of breast cancer and atypical hyperplasia because alcohol has been linked as a risk factor for increasing the risk of breast cancer.

4- Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight and controlling obesity can reduce the risk of hormonal imbalances, which may contribute to atypical hyperplasia.

5- Consider Risk-Reducing Medications

For women who are at an increased risk for breast cancer, doctors may prescribe medicines such as tamoxifen or raloxifene to help women avoid the risk of breast cancer.

At FitwellHub, we offer women preventive health services and customized care plans to assist them in preventing breast cancer. Visit our help page for more information.

Diagnosis

Atypical hyperplasia diagnosis is made through the combination of imaging tests and tissue biopsies to evaluate breast tissue.

• Mammogram: A mammogram is usually the first step in diagnosing atypical hyperplasia showing abnormalities in dense tissue or calcifications in the breast.
• Breast Ultrasound: When a palpable mass or lump is seen with other abnormal findings, ultrasound studies are used to analyze suspicious areas on a mammogram.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In some cases, where women have dense breasts or high-risk factors, MRIs are used to have a better view of the breast tissue.
• Core Needle Biopsy: In the laboratory, a core needle biopsy is used to remove small samples of tissues from the suspicious area. It confirms the presence of atypical hyperplasia.
• Surgical Biopsy: If the core needle biopsy does not provide enough information, surgical biopsy is used to remove a larger tissue sample for further evaluation. 

At FitwellHub, we provide comprehensive diagnostic services, including imaging and biopsies, to accurately diagnose conditions like atypical hyperplasia. Visit our lab today to learn more or book your tests!

Treatment

The goal of treating atypical hyperplasia is to lower the chance of getting breast cancer and control the condition with medication or follow-up. The following treatment options are used:

Approach	Description
Regular Monitoring	Regular mammograms, ultrasounds, and clinical evaluations to track any changes in breast tissue.
Medications	Risk-reducing drugs such as raloxifene or tamoxifen may be prescribed to lower the risk of breast cancer.
Surgery	Surgical removal of abnormal tissue if atypical hyperplasia is extensive or if there is a family history.
Lifestyle Modifications	Healthy weight, balanced diet, no smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption help reduce cancer risk.
Risk-Reducing Surgeries (High-Risk Cases)	Prophylactic mastectomy or similar surgeries for women with a high risk of breast cancer or BRCA gene mutations.

Medications

Commonly prescribed medications for atypical hyperplasia are:

1- Tamoxifen

By preventing the effects of estrogen on breast tissue, tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), helps lower the risk of breast cancer in women with atypical hyperplasia. 

2- Raloxifene

Raloxifene is another SERM used in postmenopausal women to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women with atypical hyperplasia.

3- Aromatase Inhibitors

Aromatase inhibitors are prescribed to postmenopausal women to reduce the risk of breast cancer by lowering the levels of estrogen produced in the body.

4- Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy is used to balance the hormones and reduce the stimulation of the breast tissue. It helps to manage the presence of atypical hyperplasia.

5- Pain Relievers

When the condition is causing discomfort and pain, over-the-counter pain relievers are recommended to reduce the symptoms.

At FitwellHub, our pharmacy offers a wide range of medications for treating atypical hyperplasia of the breast and related symptoms. Visit our pharmacy to explore available options and consult with our experts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)