Measles Information

Two Northwestern Medicine Breast Health Program nurses looking at imaging on computer screens.

Benign (Noncancerous) Breast Conditions

Appointments

Find Doctors
Contact Us

Not all breast illnesses are cancer. Benign breast conditions range from cysts to inflammation of the breasts. Some of these conditions can be painful and need treatment. Others do not need treatment.

Some benign breast conditions can look like cancer. These conditions may require a biopsy to see if they are or could become cancerous. During a biopsy, your physician will remove tissue from the abnormal area of your breast. Then, they will send it to a pathology lab to be looked at under a microscope.

Your physician will go over the results of your biopsy with you and discuss the next steps.

Benign Breast Conditions Resources

Benign Biopsy Results

If your biopsy results show that your breast abnormality is benign, it is not cancer.

benign biopsy results

Atypical Biopsy Results

If your biopsy results show that your breast abnormality is not typical, the findings are not cancer but they are also not normal.

atypical biopsy results

High Risk Biopsies

High-risk benign breast abnormalities are conditions that may increase your risk for getting cancer in the future.

high-risk biopsies

Infections of the Breast

If your breast becomes infected with bacteria, your body’s immune system will start to fight the bacteria. This may cause inflammation that can lead to swelling and pain.

infections of the breast

When To See Your Physician

You know your breasts best. Always let your physician know if you notice any changes.

when to see your physician

Northwestern Medicine Cancer Network

Our multidisciplinary team works in collaboration together across the entire Chicagoland area.

cancer network