Fat Necrosis

Fat necrosis presents as a breast mass with surrounding ecchymosis (bruise). It may be tender and a history of breast trauma is identified in half the cases. Even when significant trauma is not identified, it is felt to be the general cause of this condition.

This benign condition is self-resolving, but is of clinical importance because it mimics the dominant mass found in breast cancer.

Those cases with the typical presentation can be followed to make sure they completely resolve. Those cases that are not typical or if there is any doubt, can have a fine needle aspiration to confirm the diagnosis.