Fibrocystic Breast Disease - Fibrocystic Changes in the Breast

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis of fibrocystic changes begins with a medical history and physical exam. The woman can also feel the changes during a breast self-examination. The changes have been compared to manipulating a plateful of peas. There are usually areas of lumpiness. Larger cysts often feel like small balloons filled with water. A mammogram may be ordered. A breast biopsy is sometimes done but is often not required for diagnosis.