Detection and evaluation of a palpable breast mass

The discovery of a breast mass, either self-detected or identified by a cli nician, is a common, often distressing occurrence for many women. Although most detected breast masses are benign, every woman presenting with a breas t mass should be evaluated to exclude or establish a diagnosis of cancer. T his article provides a succinct overview of normal breast anatomy and revie ws common causes of breast masses, The role of the clinical breast examinat ion is discussed, and an algorithm is provided for optimal utilization of a vailable tools in the diagnostic evaluation of a breast mass. The evaluatio n should be performed expeditiously and the results communicated promptly t o the patient. Regardless of the age of the woman, a clinically suspicious mass must be evaluated even if findings on a mammogram are normal.