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Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is a non-cancerous condition where cells lining the milk ducts of the breast experience abnormal growth, indicating an increased risk of cancer. Patients are recommended to have regular check-ups and may consider prophylactic medications or a preventive mastectomy. Regular breast self-exams and health screenings are important for early detection.
Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is a medical condition in which the cells lining the milk ducts of the breast experience abnormal growth. This condition is not cancerous, but it may indicate an increased risk of cancer for a woman. As a result, medical professionals usually recommend close monitoring and follow-up in patients who have experienced this condition in one or both breasts.
The term “hyperplasia” is used to describe any increase in the number of cells in a particular region. Many things can lead to it, and the condition is often so benign that people don’t even notice it. In other cases, the hyperplasia causes organ displacement, pain, and other symptoms that make it noticeable. In the case of atypical ductal hyperplasia, the condition is usually diagnosed during routine mammograms.
On a mammogram, this form of hyperplasia shows up as a small deposit around the milk duct. A doctor will usually ask to biopsy the area to rule out the possibility of a malignant tumor. Once the biopsy confirms that the patient has atypical ductal hyperplasia, the healthcare professional can discuss a number of options with the patient.
The easiest option is to leave the site alone. As this condition is non-cancerous, it does not require treatment. However, medical professionals usually recommend that their patients check their breasts closely during monthly breast self-exams, and patients may be encouraged to have clinical breast exams and mammograms on a more regular basis. By remaining vigilant, signs of breast cancer can be detected early if it emerges.
Some women choose to take prophylactic medications if they develop atypical ductal hyperplasia, especially if their family members have a history of cancer. These drugs can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. More radically, a woman can opt for a preventive mastectomy. This is not a choice to be taken lightly, and is generally only considered when a woman has a substantial family history of breast cancer along with other risk factors that elevate her likelihood of developing it.
By performing regular breast self-exams and receiving recommended health screenings such as mammograms, women can identify hyperplasia and other health conditions early and make proactive choices about their health. Women should talk to their healthcare providers about recommended preventative health screenings.
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