Mastectomy, radical
Removal of all breast tissue, from just under the collarbone to the abdomen, including the chest wall muscles and the axillary lymph nodes in the armpit. In a trial begun in 1971, the efficacy of radical mastectomy was compared with that of total mastectomy. This historic trial spelled the end of radical mastectomy and started the trend toward less extensive surgery, which has culminated in the lumpectomy, leading to a vast improvement in the quality of life for women with breast cancer. Also known as Halstead mastectomy.
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- Mastectomy, simple
Removal of one or both breasts, but not the lymph nodes. Also known as a total ‘mastectomy.
- Mastectomy, subcutaneous
Removal of breast tissue, using a minimal incision. This type of mastectomy may be used to remove small areas of suspicious or cancerous tissue, but it can also be a cosmetic surgery procedure. For example, subcutaneous mastectomy can reduce the volume of enlarged male breasts or be part of a female-to-male sex-change procedure.
- Mastitis
Inflammation of one or more mammary glands within the breast, usually in a lactating woman. Mastitis can be felt as a hard, sore spot within the breast. Mastitis can be caused by an infection in the breast or by a plugged milk duct. Treatment includes resting and applying warm compresses to the affected area, and […]
- Mastocytoma
A form of mastocytosis characterized by a benign nodular skin tumor infiltrated by mast cells. Usually present at birth or in early childhood and resolves spontaneously. Also called a mast cell tumor.
- Mastocytosis
Mastocytoma — A benign nodular tumor on the skin rich in mast cells. Usually present at birth or in early childhood and resolves spontaneously. Also called a mast cell tumor. Urticaria pigmentosa — The most common form of mastocytosis consisting of small aggregations of mast cells within characteristic salmon-brown patches of ski which itch when […]