What is an indication for a clinical breast exam?

• A. Any breast complaint or symptom
• B. Annually for all women
• C. Only if there is a family history
• D. Only in women over 60

Answer: (A)

Clinical breast examination is indicated whenever there is a breast complaint or symptom. When a patient presents with a lump, pain, nipple discharge, changes in skin or nipple appearance, or any new asymmetry, a clinician performs a CBE to assess the nature of the finding, document its characteristics, and determine the next steps (such as imaging or biopsy). This targeted, symptom-driven approach helps distinguish potential benign conditions from those that need urgent workup.

Routine screening of all women with annual CBE is not a universal standard in every guideline, and a CBE based solely on family history or age CANNOT be the sole reason to perform it. Symptoms drive the exam, while risk factors like family history may influence the overall plan but do not replace the need to evaluate a presenting breast symptom.