What condition is characterized by a discrete, firm breast lump forming over weeks after lactiferous duct obstruction?

A galactocele is a cystic lesion that forms when a lactiferous duct is obstructed, typically due to retained milk during lactation. Over time, as milk continues to accumulate behind the obstruction, it can become a discrete, firm lump in the breast tissue. This condition often occurs in lactating women and is specifically characterized by the presence of milk-filled cysts.

Unlike an abscess, which is usually associated with infection and characterized by painful, fluctuant lumps, or a fibroadenoma, which is a benign tumor that may not have a clear association with lactation, a galactocele distinctly evolves from an obstruction in the milk duct without acute inflammation. Additionally, while cysts can occur in the breast, they generally refer to fluid-filled sacs that are not specifically milk retention. Therefore, the identification of a discrete firm lump associated with lactiferous duct obstruction aligns perfectly with the definition of a galactocele.