Mastalgia

Abstract

Mastalgia is a common entity in women and may also occasionally be present in men. Pain usually presents with slight intensity; however, up to 11% of persons affected can experience moderate or intense pain that limits their Activities of daily living (ADL). Mastalgia is classified as cyclic and non-cyclic, the former often associated with hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle. Clinically; the pain usually is bilateral and affect the upper external quadrants. Non cyclic mastalgia is not related with the menstrual cycle; it is generally unilateral with variable localization. Multiple causes have been described, among which the following are highlighted: large and pendulous breasts that may develop stretchingrelated Cooper's ligament pain; this pain can also be accompanied by neck, back, shoulder, and head pain, as well as a rash underneath the pendulous breast. Other causes could be related with infectious diseases, ductal ectasia, and breast cancer; however, these are uncommon. Diagnosis is based on the clinical manifestations and sometimes, breast ultrasound or mammography is required. Treatment is administered according to the cause of the breast pain, and for cyclic mastalgia, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) could be useful.