How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Breast Lump - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child has a breast lump, preparing for a telemedicine visit can help you get the most from the appointment. Breast lumps in children are often benign, but they still need careful evaluation. Telemedicine allows you to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider from home, which can be convenient and safe. During the visit, the provider will ask about the lump's size, location, changes, and any other symptoms. They may guide you through a visual check or suggest next steps. However, some signs require in-person care, such as rapid growth, pain, skin changes, or systemic symptoms. Preparing ahead by noting the lump’s details and your child’s health history will help the provider make the best recommendations. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful first step but not a replacement for hands-on examination when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rapid growth of the breast lump over days to weeks — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Redness, warmth, or skin dimpling over the lump — get immediate medical care.
• Associated systemic symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking.
• Visual inspection of the lump via video if feasible.
• Guidance on monitoring and next steps.
• Education about common causes and reassurance.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical palpation of the lump.
• Urgent evaluation of rapidly changing or painful lumps.
• Performing diagnostic imaging or procedures.
• Management of systemic symptoms requiring urgent care.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about the breast lump, including when it was first noticed, its size, whether it changes in size or shape, and if there is any pain or redness. You may be asked to show the lump on camera to help the provider assess its appearance. The provider may also ask about your child's overall health and any other symptoms like fever or weight loss.

How to Prepare for the Visit

Before the appointment, write down when you first noticed the lump and any changes since then. Note any pain, skin changes, or other symptoms. Have a quiet, private space ready with good lighting for the video call. Make sure your device is charged and connected to the internet. Have your child's medical history and any previous test results handy.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If the lump grows quickly, becomes painful, or the skin over it becomes red, warm, or dimpled, seek in-person medical evaluation promptly. Also, if your child has fever, unexplained weight loss, or the lump is very hard or fixed to underlying tissues, these are signs that need urgent attention.

Common Causes of Breast Lumps in Children

Most breast lumps in children are benign and may include cysts, fibroadenomas, or normal breast tissue development. Infections can also cause lumps that may be tender and red. Rarely, lumps may be related to more serious conditions, which is why evaluation is important.

Next Steps After the Telemedicine Visit

Depending on the assessment, the provider may recommend watchful waiting, imaging tests like ultrasound, or an in-person visit for physical examination. Follow the provider’s advice carefully and schedule any recommended follow-ups promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the lump was first noticed and any changes.
• Observe and record any pain, redness, or skin changes.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and any prior test results available.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider recommendations for monitoring the lump.
• Schedule any recommended imaging or in-person visits.
• Watch for red flag symptoms and seek urgent care if they occur.
• Keep a symptom diary to track any changes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new symptoms develop or if you have concerns.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of a breast lump in my child?

Telemedicine can help gather important information and guide next steps, but it cannot replace a physical exam or imaging tests needed for a definitive diagnosis.

What should I do if the lump becomes painful or changes quickly?

If the lump grows rapidly, becomes painful, or the skin changes, seek in-person medical evaluation promptly as these may indicate infection or other urgent conditions.

Are breast lumps common in children?

Yes, breast lumps in children are often benign and related to normal development or benign conditions, but they still require evaluation to rule out other causes.

Will my child need an ultrasound?

The healthcare provider may recommend an ultrasound to better understand the lump, especially if it has concerning features or does not resolve over time.

Is it safe to wait and watch a breast lump in my child?

In many cases, watchful waiting is appropriate, but it should be done under medical guidance with close monitoring for any changes or symptoms.

Sources

1. Breast Lumps in Children and Adolescents — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Breast Mass in Children and Adolescents: Evaluation and Management — National Library of Medicine.
3. Breast Disorders in Adolescents — Mayo Clinic.
4. Breast Masses in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has concerning symptoms or red flags, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.