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What is Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr D S K Sahitya , Oncologists
Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia (ADH) is a breast condition where the cells inside the milk ducts begin to grow in an abnormal way. While these cells are not cancer, they don't look completely normal under a microscope either. Because of this, ADH is considered a precancerous condition. It means you're more likely to develop breast cancer later, but it doesn't guarantee that you will.
ADH is usually discovered during routine breast screening, especially when a mammogram shows unusual changes. With early detection and the right care, this condition can be managed well, and the risk of breast cancer can be reduced.
What are the Causes of ADH?
Doctors aren't exactly sure what causes atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH). But they think it happens when breast cells grow and divide in an unusual way.
This may be due to:
- Hormone changes, especially too much estrogen
- Family history or inherited gene problems
- Contact with chemicals that act like estrogen
- Natural changes in breast tissue as you get older
- ADH often occurs without any noticeable lump or pain.
It's usually found when doctors are looking at breast tissue from a biopsy done after an abnormal mammogram.
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Get Second OpinionWho is at Risk?
Anyone can develop ADH, but some people are at a higher risk. It's more common in:
- Women over the age of 40
- People with a family history of breast cancer
- Women with dense breast tissue
- Those who have never had children or had children later in life
- Individuals who started their period early or went through menopause late
How is ADH Diagnosed?
ADH is usually found during a screening mammogram, especially when the radiologist sees tiny calcium deposits in the breast called microcalcifications. These may be harmless, but sometimes they are linked to abnormal cell growth.
To find out what's going on, your doctor may recommend a biopsy, either a core needle biopsy or a surgical biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue. This sample is then examined under a microscope to check for signs of atypical cell growth.
If ADH is confirmed, your doctor may suggest removing more tissue to make sure there are no hidden cancer cells. This step is important because, in some cases, cancer cells may be hiding near the ADH.
What are the Treatment and Management of ADH?
Although ADH is not cancer, treatment usually involves removing the abnormal cells to prevent future problems. After a biopsy, if ADH is found, doctors may recommend a lumpectomy to remove the entire area where the abnormal cells were found.
In addition to surgery, your care plan may include
Close follow-up care, including yearly mammograms and, in some cases, Medications to lower your breast cancer risk, such as:
- Tamoxifen (for premenopausal women)
- Raloxifene or aromatase inhibitors (for postmenopausal women)
Lifestyle changes are also helpful. Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol, avoiding tobacco, and staying active all contribute to better breast health and lower cancer risk.
How Long Does it Take for Atypical Hyperplasia to Turn into Cancer?
Atypical ductal hyperplasia does not turn into breast cancer right away, and in fact, it may never progress to cancer at all. But because the cells are abnormal, they can develop into cancer over time, often over a period of 5 to 10 years or more.
This doesnt mean you'l definitely get cancer if you have ADH. Many people with this condition never do. But since the risk is higher, doctors will monitor you closely with regular screenings to catch any changes early, when they are easiest to treat.
- After five years, about 7% of people with ADH will develop breast cancer.
- After 10 years, about 13% of people with ADH will develop breast cancer.
- After 25 years, about 30% of people with ADH will develop breast cancer.
When to See a Doctor
Since ADH doesn't usually cause symptoms, it's often found through routine mammograms. However, if you notice any changes in your breasts, like a new lump, pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes, don't wait. It's important to talk to a doctor right away.
If you've had a biopsy that shows ADH, be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations for monitoring and treatment. Regular checkups and early care are your best defense.
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Tips to Reduce the Risk of ADH
If you've been diagnosed with ADH or if you want to take steps to protect your breast health in general, here are some helpful tips:
- Get regular breast screenings
- Talk to your doctor about risk-reducing medications
- Limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day
- Avoid smoking, which can raise your cancer risk
- Keep a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Choose a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
- Get enough sleep and manage stress, as these also affect hormone balance
Our Experience in Treating Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia
At Medicover Hospitals, we focus on finding and treating breast conditions like Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia early. Our team of breast care experts, radiologists, and surgeons work closely to give you clear answers and a care plan made just for you.
We use modern scans, safe biopsy methods, and kind, expert care to guide you every step of the way.
