A palpable mass described as having multiple lobes would be classified as which shape?

A palpable mass described as having multiple lobes would be classified as which shape?

• A. Round
• B. Oval
• C. Lobulated
• D. Irregular

Answer: (C)

When describing a palpable breast mass, its outline is labeled by shape. A mass with multiple rounded projections along its border is described as lobulated. The term lobulated comes from the idea of several lobes, so the contour looks like multiple rounded bumps rather than a single smooth edge. In contrast, a round mass has a single circular contour, an oval mass is elongated but smooth with one continuous border, and an irregular mass has an uneven, nonuniform outline that lacks distinct lobes. So the presence of multiple lobes specifically points to a lobulated shape.

When describing a palpable breast mass, its outline is labeled by shape. A mass with multiple rounded projections along its border is described as lobulated. The term lobulated comes from the idea of several lobes, so the contour looks like multiple rounded bumps rather than a single smooth edge.

In contrast, a round mass has a single circular contour, an oval mass is elongated but smooth with one continuous border, and an irregular mass has an uneven, nonuniform outline that lacks distinct lobes. So the presence of multiple lobes specifically points to a lobulated shape.