posted by CustardCream
24 September 2024
Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia
Last reply:
25 September 2024 14:08
Can you please tell me what the standard treatment for atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is?
I was diagnosed with this after a biopsy for a cluster of microcalcifications in the right breast. I have other risk factors: strong family history of breast cancer, category C density, prior biopsies, prior ovarian tumours. So I am keen to pursue the correct standard of care. I am asking here because my consultant says no treatment is necessary and I don't believe this - can you help?
Thank you
Dear CustardCream.
Thank you for posting on our online forum. I am sorry to read that you have some concerns about your recent breast biopsy results and management plan.
Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is an overgrowth of the cells that line the ducts inside the breast. It is not cancer, but some types of ADH are linked with a higher risk of developing breast cancer. It doesn’t usually cause a lump that can be felt, but it can sometimes cause changes that can be seen on a mammogram.
If ADH is found in a needle biopsy sample, surgery may be recommended to remove more breast tissue around it. This is to be sure that there is nothing more serious, such as cancer, nearby. However, the pathologist may be able to identify that all the ADH has been removed in the biopsy sample, and therefore, no further surgical intervention is required. If ADH is found after a surgical biopsy, typically no other treatment is needed.
Although most women with ADH will not develop breast cancer, it is important to talk with your breast surgeon about your risk and what you can do about it.
Options for women at higher risk of breast cancer from ADH may include:
If you would like to speak to a nurse, please call our support line. The number is 1800 200 700, and we are her Monday-Friday, from 0900-1700.
Kind regards,
Cancer Nurse