They contain thousands of lobules and tubes that carry milk towards the nipple. Cancerous cells can develop in any one of these structures. Breast cancer is often associated with estrogen exposure or inherited defects such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. The immune system normally attacks any changes in DNA or growths. However, when the cancer cells begin to spread to distant organs, they can lead to invasive breast cancer.
There are several tests used to diagnose breast cancer. A mammogram is a X-ray of the breasts that can reveal abnormalities or lumps. The images from a mammogram can prompt further testing. Ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to distinguish a solid mass from a fluid-filled cyst. When a lump or cyst is detected, it will usually require a biopsy. If it is confirmed to be cancer, a breast surgeon may recommend surgical removal of the lump or cyst.
Other treatments for breast cancer include surgery to remove the ovaries or hormone therapy, which blocks the action of hormones. The cancer cells are stimulated by certain hormones in the body and can grow uncontrollably. Surgical procedures, radiation therapy, and drugs can reduce or block the production of hormones. While estrogen is responsible for some breast cancer growth, it is also important to note that some cancers are not triggered by the presence of estrogen. Therefore, the aim of the treatment is to suppress the growth of cancer cells in the ovaries, thus reducing the risk of tumors and spreading throughout the body.
The different stages of breast cancer have different characteristics and severity. A breast cancer can be staged according to its size and the lymph nodes in the area. Stage 0 is considered ductal carcinoma in situ (DCINS), which has not spread to other organs. The size and location of the tumor are usually small, up to two centimeters. Depending on the cancer, it can be a tumor with small cancer cells in the lymph nodes.
A complete axillary dissection is an option for treatment of a large breast tumor. In the past, this procedure was considered necessary to prevent the cancer from spreading throughout the lymph nodes. But today, there is a newer procedure known as sentinel node biopsy, which has fewer risks. A radioactive tracer or dye is used to detect the spread of the disease. There are also several treatments available for advanced stages of cancer.
Early stage breast cancer does not cause pain. This type of cancer may not exhibit any signs or symptoms at all. However, the signs of breast cancer include a lump in the breast or a breast that is becoming thicker. These symptoms may also be accompanied by nipple discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider right away. However, breast cancer symptoms should never be misinterpreted as a sign of other diseases.
