Patient Information | Breast Conditions & Testing

Information for women about family history of breast cancer

Breast cancer develops when abnormal cell growth isn’t controlled, sometimes due to inherited gene mutations; while 1 in 7 women will develop breast cancer by age 85, those with strong family histories or faulty genes may face much higher risks, making family history assessment essential.

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Mammographic density and what it means

Dense breast tissue can make cancers harder to detect on mammograms and also increases breast cancer risk, which is why women with higher density (Category C or D) are advised to have both annual mammograms and ultrasounds for the most effective screening.

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Nipple Dermatitis or Eczema

Eczema or dermatitis can affect the nipple and areola, often causing an itchy, weepy rash that may worsen with allergies, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, but usually improves with topical treatment and avoiding irritants—though persistent changes should be promptly checked by your breast doctor.

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Papilloma

An intraductal papilloma is a small, benign growth in the breast’s milk ducts that can cause a lump under the nipple or clear/bloody nipple discharge, sometimes only detected on ultrasound. Diagnosis is made with imaging and biopsy if needed, and treatment usually involves surgical removal to relieve symptoms and rule out associated abnormalities, with minimal impact on breast cancer risk for solitary papillomas.

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Radial Scars and Complex Sclerosing Lesions

Radial scars and complex sclerosing lesions are benign breast conditions that may look like cancer on a mammogram, so a core biopsy is usually done for diagnosis. Sometimes surgery is recommended to remove them, after which most women return to routine annual breast screening.

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Reducing Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer affects 1 in 7 Australian women by age 85, but most cases are not linked to family history. While age and being female are the main risk factors, lifestyle choices such as eating a healthy diet, exercising daily, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, avoiding smoking, breastfeeding, and minimising hormone therapy after menopause can all help reduce risk.

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White spot on the nipple

A white spot on the nipple (also called a bleb or milk blister) is usually linked to breastfeeding but can occur at other times. It’s caused by a blocked nipple pore from skin or thickened milk and may cause pain during feeds. Warm compresses, gentle rubbing, or olive oil can help clear it, but sometimes medical treatment is needed.

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Why we use ultrasound

Mammograms are the best test for early breast cancer detection but may miss some cancers, especially in dense breast tissue. Ultrasound can help reveal hidden abnormalities and is recommended for women with dense breasts, higher cancer risk, or those under 35, pregnant, or breastfeeding.

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Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare, highly treatable immune system cancer that develops around breast implants, most commonly textured implants. It usually causes swelling from fluid build-up, and diagnosis is made via ultrasound and fluid analysis; treatment typically involves removal of the implant and surrounding capsule, with no routine removal needed for symptom-free implants.

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Patient Information and Resources

Information for women about family history of breast cancer

Mammographic density and what it means

Nipple Dermatitis or Eczema

Papilloma

Radial Scars and Complex Sclerosing Lesions

Reducing Your Risk of Breast Cancer

White spot on the nipple

Why we use ultrasound

Breast Implant Associated Lymphoma