Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is an abnormal growth of cells in the breast.

If found, atypical ductal hyperplasia will require close monitoring.

ADH is similar toatypical lobular hyperplasia(ALH).

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However, ALH involves epithelial cells lining the lobules of the breast rather than the ducts.

Atypical ductal hyperplasia may causebreast pain, though this is rare.

Causes

A specific cause for atypical ductal hyperplasia is unknown.Normal cells overproduce.

And as that continues, they begin to become irregular.

If the condition is not properly managed, it will continue to progress and eventually become breast cancer.

It may also affect nearby tissues.

Most cases of ADH should be surgically removed given the risk of finding early breast cancer with excision.

Does atypical ductal hyperplasia always turn into cancer?

If a diagnosis of ADH is confirmed, options include a wait-and-see approach, medication, or surgery.

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