Question 1

A female patient identified as having the BRCA mutation asks which intervention will reduce the risk of breast cancer the most? What will the provider tell her?&#10;A) Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)&#10;B) Clinical breast examination every 6 months&#10;C) Early childbearing and breastfeeding&#10;D) Prophylactic mastectomy

Accepted Answer

Prophylactic mastectomy is the most effective way to reduce the risk of breast cancer, with up to a 90% reduction in risk for individuals with the BRCA mutation. While other interventions such as breast MRI and clinical breast exams can also be helpful, they do not provide as significant a reduction in risk as prophylactic mastectomy. Early childbearing and breastfeeding have been shown to modestly reduce the risk of breast cancer, but are not as effective as surgery for individuals with the BRCA mutation.

Question 2

A woman who has just weaned her infant from breastfeeding develops signs of mastitis and is treated with antibiotics. At a follow-up visit, the provider notes marked breast edema and erythema of the affected breast. What will the provider do next?

A) Consult with a surgeon for I&D of the breast
B) Counsel the patient to apply warm compresses
C) Prescribe antibiotics to treat MRSA infection
D) Refer the patient for an immediate biopsy

D

Accepted Answer

Given the marked breast edema and erythema after antibiotic treatment for mastitis, the next step is to consider more serious conditions such as inflammatory breast cancer. A biopsy is necessary to rule out malignancy.

Question 3

A postmenopausal woman reports unilateral breast pain that she describes as sharp and burning and localized to one area. A breast examination reveals no dimpling, discharge, or masses. Which diagnostic test will the provider order?

A) Bilateral mammography
B) Focused ultrasound
C) Hormone levels
D) Needle biopsy

A

Accepted Answer

A

Deck 139: Breast Disorders