Fat Necrosis

page header

Contents · Introduction · Learning Objectives · Textbook · Lectures · Procedures · Final Exam · Library · Laboratory · Pharmacy · Imaging · Forms · Videos · About · Contact Us>

Fat Necrosis

Fat necrosis presents as a breast mass with surrounding ecchymosis (bruise). It may be tender and a history of breast trauma is identified in half the cases. Even when significant trauma is not identified, it is felt to be the general cause of this condition.

This benign condition is self-resolving, but is of clinical importance because it mimics the dominant mass found in breast cancer.

Those cases with the typical presentation can be followed to make sure they completely resolve. Those cases that are not typical or if there is any doubt, can have a fine needle aspiration to confirm the diagnosis.

This information is provided by The Brookside Associates. The Brookside Associates, LLC. is a private organization, not affiliated with any governmental agency. The opinions presented here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Brookside Associates or the Department of Defense. The presence of any advertising on these pages does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service by either the US Department of Defense or the Brookside Associates. All material presented here is unclassified.