Mastodynia, also known as mastalgia, describes pain in the breast tissue. There are three distinct types, each with different causes and patterns of discomfort. A physician from SberZdorovye noted that unilateral chest pain can signal a breast neoplasm and warrants careful evaluation.
The most frequent form is cyclical mastodynia. This variant aligns with the menstrual cycle, producing bilateral breast pain in the latter half of the cycle, typically just before menstruation. Women often notice swelling, tenderness, and fullness in the breasts during this time.
Acyclic mastodynia refers to breast pain that does not follow the menstrual cycle or hormonal fluctuations. The reasons can include benign breast changes such as cysts, the use of oral contraceptives, mastitis, or an overall increase in breast size. Prior surgeries like mastectomy or physical trauma can also contribute. Acyclic mastodynia usually presents as unilateral pain in a specific breast area, though it may be bilateral in some cases where the breasts are naturally large. In managing acyclic mastodynia, doctors often rely on ultrasound or mammography to determine the underlying cause, and treatment is tailored accordingly. Acknowledging this, clinicians emphasize that imaging helps guide appropriate care rather than assuming a malignant process.
Extramammary mastalgia is a separate category where chest pain originates from issues outside the breast tissue itself. This type can stem from metabolic-dystrophic spine or joint conditions, heart disease, radicular pain, or myalgias. It typically presents as unilateral pain but may be felt on both sides and can include muscle discomfort in the surrounding areas. Recognizing this distinction helps direct evaluation toward the most relevant medical systems and prevents misattributing pain to the breast when the root cause lies elsewhere.
It is important to note that breast pain is not usually an early warning sign of breast cancer. To avoid missing oncologic pathology in its early stages, regular screening is advised starting at age 40 with mammography every two years. If a first-degree relative such as a mother, grandmother, or sister has a history of breast cancer, screening should begin at age 40 and continue annually. These recommendations reflect standard preventative care and are supported by clinical guidance from SberHealth clinicians.
In clinical practice, a careful history and targeted imaging are essential to distinguish cyclical, acyclic, and extramammary pain. By emphasizing evidence-based evaluation, health professionals aim to alleviate concern while ensuring that potential malignancies are not overlooked. This balanced approach helps patients receive timely reassurance or further investigation as needed, promoting overall breast health and well-being.