When should I consider referring a patient with a breast cyst for further evaluation?

Consider referring a patient with a breast cyst for further evaluation if the breast lump is unexplained and the patient is aged 30 or over. In this case, refer the patient using a suspected cancer pathway referral. For patients under 30 with an unexplained breast lump, consider a non-urgent referral and seek specialist advice if needed.

Specifically for breast cysts: If the lump is clearly a cyst and typical benign features are present, urgent referral is not usually required. However, if the cyst is persistent, increasing in size, or associated with other concerning features (such as an axillary lump unexplained in a patient aged 30 or over), then referral for further evaluation is warranted.