Stage three breast cancer is up to five centimeters in size, and it has spread to lymph nodes nearby. In stage four, the cancer has spread to other tissues and organs, and it can spread to distant organs. Breast cancer can be treated in stage II and stage III, and it may return after treatment.
This cancer begins in the inner lining of milk ducts and lobules, which supply the breast with milk. The cancer cells can spread throughout the body and invade other parts of the lymph nodes, which is known as metastasis. Most often, breast cancer begins in milk-producing ducts, but it can also start in glandular tissue called lobules. In rare cases, the cancer cells may originate in other areas of the breast.
In recent years, medical treatments for breast cancer have changed and advanced to less invasive approaches. The primary benefit of these techniques is a reduction in unnecessary operations and procedures. One such surgery, called a “mastectomy,” removed the entire breast and axillary lymph nodes, along with the pectoralis muscle. Although it is no longer recommended because of its high rate of mortality, some women still benefit from this procedure. A modified radical mastectomy, called a “Patey” procedure, preserves the pectoralis muscle. Another option is a breast-only removal without an axillary dissection. This procedure is also used for small tumors with negative sentinel lymph nodes.
Genetic and environmental factors can also play a role in developing breast cancer. Certain mutations in specific genes have been linked to the development of breast cancer. These mutations are either inherited or acquired. Women with inherited BRCA mutations are at a significantly higher risk of developing the disease. However, women with genetically inherited BRCA mutations also have a higher risk of ovarian and uterine cancer. For women with these mutations, genetic testing is highly recommended.
The main goal of treatment for breast cancer is to diagnose and treat the disease early. While no cure exists for cancer, it can be curable if detected in its early stages. Fortunately, breast cancer specialists are experienced in advanced detection and have access to cutting-edge technology and clinical trials. These diagnostic tools may help patients detect cancer early, which is essential for its cure. So, do not delay breast cancer treatment just because your doctor says it is Stage 2 or Stage III.
Stage II breast cancer has two forms: invasive and noninvasive. Invasive breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It is also known as triple negative breast cancer. This type of breast cancer lacks the hormone epidermal growth factor receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors, which are known to fuel most of the tumor growth. ER is the most common hormone involved in breast cancer. And the HER-2/neu gene is also associated with the development of Stage II breast cancer.
