Breast symptoms in adolescents and young adults presenting to a specialist breast clinic.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: While breast cancer is rare in adolescents and young adults (AYAs), breast symptoms are common. The aim of this study was to report breast symptoms that prompted referral of AYAs and to examine diagnoses and treatment. METHOD: A retrospective study of AYAs aged ≤25 years who presented in a specialist breast clinic (2007-18) was conducted. Data regarding presentation, diagnosis and management were collected. RESULTS: One hundred and thirty-four (128 female, six male) AYAs, with a median age of 21 years, attended the breast clinic in the study period. There was one case of breast cancer (incidence 0.8%). In females, the most frequent presenting symptoms were 'lump' (n = 68, 53.1%), 'nipple/areola symptom' (n = 14, 10.9%) and 'discuss risk of breast cancer' (n = 10, 8.3%). In males, 'lump' was the most common presenting symptom (n = 5, 83%) and all were cases of gynaecomastia. DISCUSSION: A range of breast symptoms are found in AYAs and most can be treated conservatively. Awareness of symptoms and their management will help general practitioners treat young people with breast issues.