A 38-year-old patient presents to the clinic office complaining of increased bilateral tenderness of her breasts prior to the onset of menses. On questioning the patient, this
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because lumpy areas on the upper outer quadrants of the breasts are characteristic of fibrocystic breast changes, which commonly cause increased tenderness before menses. This finding is important for differential diagnosis and management. Choice B is incorrect because the size of the areas is less relevant than the location and characteristics. Choice C is incorrect as it is not specific to the clinical presentation described. Choice D is incorrect because while an ultrasound may be used in assessing breast lumps, the initial step would be to identify the specific characteristics on physical examination.