What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast tissue become cancerous and multiply abnormally, forming a tumor. It most commonly begins in the milk ducts or milk-producing glands, called lobules.
Breast cancer can affect women and men. Not every breast lump is cancerous, and a medical evaluation is needed to determine the cause of an unusual breast change.
Types of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can be classified based on where it begins and the characteristics of its cells.
Ductal Carcinoma
Ductal carcinoma starts in the cells of the breast ducts. It includes ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which is noninvasive, and invasive ductal carcinoma, which can spread into surrounding breast tissue.
Lobular Carcinoma
Lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-producing glands, known as lobules. Invasive lobular carcinoma can spread beyond the lobules into nearby breast tissue.
Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Some breast cancers have receptors for hormones such as estrogen or progesterone. Testing for these receptors helps healthcare professionals plan treatment.
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
HER2-positive breast cancer has high levels of the HER2 protein or extra copies of the HER2 gene. This characteristic can help guide treatment decisions.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer does not have estrogen or progesterone receptors and does not produce high levels of HER2. Treatment depends on the individual's diagnosis and clinical circumstances.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms during its early stages. Some cases are identified through screening, while others are discovered after a person notices a change in their breast.
Possible symptoms include:
- A lump or thickened area in the breast.
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
- Changes in the appearance of the nipple.
- A nipple that turns inward.
- Changes in breast skin, such as dimpling, scaling or changes in color.
- Nipple discharge, including bloody discharge.
Symptoms may differ depending on the type and stage of breast cancer. Not every breast change means cancer, but unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Symptoms in Men
Men can also develop breast cancer. Possible signs include a lump or thickened area near the nipple, nipple changes, skin changes, nipple discharge or bleeding, and swollen lymph nodes in the armpit.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you notice a new breast lump or another unusual change, arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional.
Do not wait for your next mammogram to report a new change. A recent mammogram that did not show cancer does not mean that a new symptom should be ignored.
Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
The exact cause of most breast cancers is not known. Breast cancer develops when changes in the DNA of breast cells affect how those cells grow and survive.
Several factors may increase the risk of breast cancer, including:
- Increasing age.
- A family history of breast cancer.
- Certain inherited genetic changes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- A personal history of breast cancer or certain breast conditions.
- Radiation exposure.
- Certain reproductive and hormonal factors.
- Dense breast tissue.
- Alcohol use.
- Obesity.
Having a risk factor does not mean that someone will definitely develop breast cancer. People without known risk factors can also develop the disease.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Breast cancer diagnosis may begin with a physical examination and a review of symptoms and medical history.
Healthcare professionals may recommend the following tests:
Mammogram
A mammogram is an imaging test used to examine breast tissue. Sometimes breast cancer is first identified through a screening mammogram that shows a concerning finding.
Ultrasound and MRI
Breast ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to investigate changes in breast tissue and examine areas of concern.
Breast Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a sample of breast tissue for laboratory examination. It can help determine whether cancer is present.
Laboratory Testing
If breast cancer is diagnosed, additional testing may identify characteristics such as hormone receptor status and HER2 status. These findings can help guide the treatment plan.
The tests recommended depend on the individual's circumstances.
Breast Cancer Treatment Options
Breast cancer treatment depends on factors such as the type of cancer, its stage, and the characteristics of the cancer cells.
Healthcare professionals may recommend one treatment or a combination of treatments.
Surgery
Surgery may involve removing the cancerous tumor or the affected breast.
Common procedures include:
- Lumpectomy.
- Mastectomy.
- Breast reconstruction.
The appropriate procedure depends on the individual's diagnosis and treatment plan.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to treat cancer cells. It may be used as part of breast cancer treatment depending on the diagnosis and other clinical factors.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines to treat cancer cells. It may be used in different stages of treatment, including before or after surgery, depending on the specific circumstances.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy may be used for breast cancers that have hormone receptors. These medicines can block hormone effects or reduce hormone levels in the body.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medicines designed to act on specific features of cancer cells. HER2 testing can help healthcare professionals determine whether HER2-targeted treatment may be appropriate.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy may be used in certain breast cancer situations. Whether it is suitable depends on the specific characteristics of the cancer and the treatment plan.
Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer. Some lifestyle choices and risk-reduction approaches may help lower risk for certain individuals.
Screening can help detect breast cancer early, but screening tests and breast self-exams do not prevent the disease.
People who have concerns about their breast cancer risk should discuss screening and other options with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breast. It can begin in the milk ducts or milk-producing glands.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Possible symptoms include a breast lump, changes in breast size or shape, nipple changes, and changes to the skin of the breast. Some breast cancers may not cause noticeable symptoms initially.
Can men get breast cancer?
Yes. Men can develop breast cancer, although it is less common in men than in women.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis may involve a breast examination, imaging tests such as mammography or ultrasound, and a biopsy. Additional testing may help identify the characteristics of the cancer.
What treatments are available for breast cancer?
Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The appropriate treatment depends on the diagnosis and individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Breast cancer can develop in different forms and may present with different symptoms. Understanding the potential signs, diagnostic process and treatment approaches can help people have informed discussions with healthcare professionals.
If you notice a new breast lump or unusual change, seek medical evaluation rather than assuming its cause.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified cancer specialist for personalized medical guidance.