Benign lump formed by localised degeneration and scarring of fat tissue in the breast

It may be associated with an oil cyst, containing liquid fat.

Cause:

Fat necrosis is commonly triggered by localised trauma, radiotherapy or surgery, with an inflammatory reaction resulting in fibrosis and necrosis (death) of the fat tissue.

It does not increase the risk of breast cancer.

Up to 40% cases usually have a traumatic aetiology • Physical features usually mimic carcinoma • Mass may increase in size initially

PC

On examination:

• Painless
• Firm
• Irregular
• Fixed in local structures
• There may be skin dimpling or nipple inversion

Investigations

Imaging:

• Ultrasound, mammogram - can show a similar appearance to breast cancer

Special tests:

• Fine needle aspiration, core biopsy- confirm diagnosis & exclude breast Ca

Management

After excluding breast Ca, it is treated conservatively