Fibrocystic breast disease is influenced by:

• A. decreased estrogen and increased progesterone
• B. estrogen predominance and progesterone deficiency
• C. increased prolactin and decreased estrogen
• D. increased progesterone and decreased prolactin

Answer: (B)

Fibrocystic breast disease is characterized by the presence of benign cysts and fibrous tissue in the breast, and its development is closely linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the relative levels of estrogen and progesterone.

The correct choice highlights estrogen predominance and progesterone deficiency as influential factors in the condition. This imbalance often leads to increased breast tissue sensitivity and proliferation, resulting in the typical symptoms associated with fibrocystic changes, such as tenderness, pain, and lumpiness during the menstrual cycle.

Estrogen drives the growth and maintenance of breast tissue, while progesterone typically works to stabilize the breast tissue and counterbalance estrogen's effects. In cases where there is excessive estrogen compared to progesterone, as observed in the majority of women with fibrocystic changes, it can lead to the characteristic symptoms and changes in breast tissue.

This hormonal interplay is crucial for understanding the pathology of fibrocystic breast disease, as it provides insight into how hormonal fluctuations can influence breast tissue morphology and function.