What is the difference between DCIS and a breast cancer? DCIS is a type of cancer that looks like a red bump in the breast. It can be low, intermediate, or high grade. Each grade is based on how the cells look under a microscope. Lower grade DCIS is more similar to the cells in the breast tissue than higher grade DCIS is. Sometimes, DCIS affects the nipple, making it look red. Paget’s disease of the breast is a rare form of the disease.
In both types of cancer, the cancer begins in cells that normally form the breast. When these cells begin to divide and grow out of control, they form a tumor. A benign tumor doesn’t spread to other parts of the body, but a malignant tumor spreads to other parts of the body. Once the cancer has spread, treatment is more difficult. It may take years for a woman to be cancer-free. However, if detected early, treatment can control the disease and prolong a woman’s life.
Several genes are responsible for breast cancer risk. The faulty genes cause abnormal breast cells to divide. Other genes change their functions. For example, in a breast cancer patient, the tumor suppressor gene controls cell division and repairs mistakes in DNA. When this gene changes, it turns on the oncogene. These cancer-causing genes also turn off the tumor suppressor gene. The breast cancer risk increases if several members of the family have these mutations.
There are three types of breast cancer. Infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC), which originates in milk ducts, invades fatty tissue and sometimes other areas of the body, is the most common type. Only 5% of breast cancers are medullary. If a tumor does invade the normal tissue, it is called an invasive cancer. However, both types are highly dangerous and need to be treated as soon as possible.
A physical examination by a healthcare provider can give an approximate chance of cancer. Certain tests, such as mammography, may not detect cancer, but they can help identify a benign lump. Fine needle aspiration, also known as cytology, can be performed in the healthcare provider’s office. Local anesthesia may be used to numb the breast tissue. This procedure may not be necessary for a lump that is beneath the skin.
Invasive ductal carcinoma begins in the milk ducts and then breaks through the walls of the milk ducts, causing the cancer to spread to surrounding breast tissue. This type of cancer accounts for 80% of invasive cases. Adenosquamous carcinoma, which looks similar to salivary gland cells, is a type of metaplastic cancer that is often mistaken for other types. It usually grows slowly, infiltrating the surrounding tissue.
Treatment options for breast cancer depend on the stage and age of the tumor. If the cancer has spread beyond the breast, the surgeon may perform a radical mastectomy. This surgery involves the removal of the entire breast, including the nipple and underarm lymph nodes. Many patients may also choose to undergo a reconstruction of the breast. In addition to a lumpectomy, a patient may receive chemotherapy before or after the procedure. This therapy reduces the risk of recurrence and is sometimes recommended for patients with advanced cancer.
