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What Causes Fibroadenoma?

Published in Fibroadenoma Causes 2 mins read

Fibroadenomas are believed to be caused by a heightened sensitivity of breast tissue to estrogen.

Understanding Fibroadenomas

Fibroadenomas are benign (non-cancerous) breast tumors that are quite common, especially in younger women. While the exact causes are not fully understood, there is a strong association with hormonal activity.

Hormonal Influence

  • The primary theory suggests that fibroadenomas arise due to an abnormal response of breast tissue to estrogen, a key female reproductive hormone.
  • This increased sensitivity can lead to the growth of glandular and connective tissue, resulting in the formation of a fibroadenoma.
  • Pregnancy: Fibroadenomas often grow in size during pregnancy, which is a period of high estrogen levels.
  • Menopause: Conversely, these tumors tend to shrink after menopause when estrogen levels decrease, further supporting the hormonal link.

Key Points Summarized:

Factor Description
Primary Cause Hormonal imbalance, particularly increased sensitivity to estrogen.
Growth Fibroadenomas grow during periods of increased estrogen levels, such as pregnancy.
Regression Fibroadenomas may shrink when estrogen levels decrease, as during menopause.
Other Factors The exact cause is still debated, but hormonal imbalances play a significant role in their formation.

Additional Considerations:

  • While not considered a primary cause, genetics and lifestyle factors may contribute to an individual's risk of developing fibroadenomas.
  • It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management of any breast lumps.

In conclusion, while the exact causes of fibroadenoma are still being researched, the predominant theory points to a hormonal etiology, specifically related to the breast tissue's enhanced response to estrogen. This explains the changes in fibroadenoma size observed during different hormonal phases of a woman's life, such as pregnancy and menopause.