Breast cancer is a type of tumor in which abnormal cells grow and divide at a faster rate than normal breast tissue. These abnormal cells can form a lump or mass, and in some cases may spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes. Once detected, breast cancer treatment will depend on the type of tumor. However, early detection is important for successful treatment. Here are some common types of breast cancer and how to recognize them.
Breast cancer starts in the lobules and inner lining of milk ducts in the breast. If the tumor spreads to lymph nodes, it becomes invasive. A doctor will determine which stage your cancer is in by looking at the size of the tumor and the lymph nodes. The NCI estimates that 90% of female patients diagnosed with breast cancer will live five years or longer. These statistics, however, do not account for the fact that not all cases will respond the same way to treatment.
If your breast cancer has spread, treatment options may include chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs work by killing cancer cells in the affected area. In addition to chemotherapy, women with breast cancer may undergo reconstructive surgery, in which the breast tissue is reconstructed to resemble the original size. In addition, chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery depending on the type of breast cancer, lymph nodes, and the risk of cancer spreading to lymph nodes.
Stage I: A small tumor within the breast is known as ductal carcinoma in situ. Treatment for this type of breast cancer is less aggressive, and is often effective in the early stages. This stage is also the most curable stage, with no risk of distant organ involvement. However, stage III is more advanced, and cancer has spread beyond the breast. It may have reached distant organs, including the liver, brain, and lungs. If it has spread to distant organs, it is known as stage IV.
Patients with ER+ or PR+ breast cancer may also receive hormone therapy. These drugs block the effects of estrogen on cancer cells. However, these drugs are not as effective as the ones designed for HER2-positive tumors. Breast cancer patients with HER2-positive tumors will likely respond to monoclonal antibodies, including trastuzumab, which is sometimes combined with chemotherapy. The next stage of treatment involves surgical methods. Surgery may involve removing one or both breasts, as well as armpit tissue.
In the event of a lump in the breast, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination. Mammograms are detailed X-rays of the breasts. MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is another option. Ultrasound is another option that uses sound waves to distinguish a solid mass from a fluid-filled cyst. A biopsy of this type is often performed in the office of a healthcare provider. When a lump is detected, it will be removed and the results analyzed by a medical professional.
