Female Gynecologic History and Physical (H&P) Practice Test

In women aged 50 and older, a breast mass that is firm or hard, with irregular, ill-defined borders and non-tender texture strongly suggests cancer. Malignant tumors tend to invade surrounding tissue, producing a stony, fixed feel and irregular margins, and they often lack acute tenderness. Age is an important risk factor, so a mass with these features in this age group is especially concerning for malignancy.

Cysts, by contrast, are usually fluid-filled and well circumscribed, often soft or slightly firm, and can be tender if the breast is inflamed or irritated. Fibroadenomas are typically well-defined, mobile, and more common in younger women. Mastitis presents with tenderness, warmth, redness, and sometimes fever, reflecting infection rather than a malignant process.