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Lobular Atrophy

Meaning

Lobular atrophy is the physiological process characterized by the involution and shrinkage of the breast lobules, the glandular structures responsible for milk production. This condition is a common and expected histological finding in the breast tissue of postmenopausal women, directly resulting from the sustained decline in circulating estrogen and progesterone levels. While considered a normal aspect of mammary aging, the extent of atrophy is clinically significant as it is associated with a reduced risk of certain types of breast cancer. The degree of lobular regression serves as a biological marker reflecting the long-term hormonal environment.