Name of the Condition

• Solitary cyst of left breast
• Medical term: Solitary cyst of the breast

Summary

A solitary cyst of the left breast is a fluid-filled sac that develops within the breast tissue. It is typically non-cancerous and may not cause any symptoms, although some women might experience discomfort or notice a lump in the breast.

Causes

The exact cause of breast cysts is not well understood, but they are generally associated with hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen levels.

Risk Factors

• Being a woman between the ages of 35 and 50
• Hormonal imbalances
• Previous history of breast cysts
• Family history of breast cysts

Symptoms

• Palpable lump in the breast that may be smooth, round, and easily movable
• Breast tenderness or pain, especially before menstruation
• Fluctuation in lump size with the menstrual cycle

Diagnosis

• Physical examination
• Ultrasound imaging to distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts
• Fine-needle aspiration for both diagnosis and relief if the cyst is causing discomfort

Treatment Options

• Observation: Many cysts resolve on their own without treatment.
• Fine-needle aspiration: To remove fluid, reduce discomfort and confirm the diagnosis.
• Hormonal therapy: Sometimes used to reduce cyst recurrence in recurrent cases.
• Surgery: Rarely needed, only if the cyst is large, recurrent, or has atypical features.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most solitary breast cysts have a good prognosis and do not lead to breast cancer.
• Regular follow-up may be recommended, especially for recurrent cysts, to monitor any changes.

Complications

• Very rare transformation into cancer, but complex cysts may require further investigation to rule out malignancy.
• Discomfort or pain if the cyst enlarges.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wearing a supportive bra to reduce breast discomfort
• Reducing caffeine intake, as it might decrease cyst tenderness for some women
• Regular breast self-examination and awareness of changes

When to Seek Professional Help

• New, persistent lump in the breast
• Breast pain or discomfort that does not resolve
• Any changes in breast shape or dimpling of skin over a lump

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society: Breast Cysts
• National Breast Cancer Foundation: Breast Health

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct side is documented, as the ICD code N60.02 specifically refers to the left breast.
• Common coding errors include confusing with benign neoplasm codes, which are not appropriate for cysts.