ABSTRACT

Introduction:

One of the most important reasons for clinical visits made by women regarding their breast health is the fear of breast cancer. In our study, our aim was to fi nd the association between complaints that led to patient visits to the Gulhane Military Medical School, Breast Disease Polyclinic clinic and diagnosis after arrival.

Material and Method:

Our study followed 1003 patients who made clinical visits to the Breast Polyclinic between January 22, 2004 and March 28, 2006.

Results:

The mean age of patients enrolled in our study was 42.84±11.90 (12–76). According to their menstrual cycle, 73.7% of patients were premenauposal while 26.3% of patients were postmenopausal. According to the diagnoses, 45% of patients were diagnosed with fi brocystic dysplasia, 8.9% with fi broadenoma, 1% with axillary lymphadenopathy, 2.7% with mastitis 2.2% with ductal ectasia, 0.4% with accessory breast, 3.3% with breast cancer, and 36.6% of the patients had fi ndings that were normal.

Conclusion:

85% of patients who were enrolled in our study visited the clinic due to discomfort and breast lumps. With greater awareness about breast cancer, the number of patients who visit the clinic for routine check-ups can easily increase leading to early diagnosis and treatment.