Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can result from the uncontrolled proliferation and division of breast cells. The cancer starts in breast tissues. Breast cells develop into tumor because of the mutations and uncontrollable growth.
In India, breast cancer is the second most frequent cancer among women .If a diagnosis of breast cancer is made at the appropriate time, treatment may be curative.Visit Bengaluru leading Breast Cancer specialist Mr.Manish Kumar and get your queries addressed.
Symptoms of breast cancer
The symptoms of breast cancer vary from individual to individual. The possible symptoms that one might experience after the observation of cancerous growth in the breasts are:
- Breast size changes or breast shape changes
- Small lump or masses
- Presence of lump or thickening in your breasts or underarms
- A different area on either breast
- Nipple discharge, that can be either blood or clear fluid
- Dimpled or depressed skin
- Nipple changes or inversion
Causes of Breast Cancer
- Age
- Family history
- Previous breast cancer or lump
- Dense breast tissue
- Hormones and Hormonal Medications
- Obesity
- Alcohol
- Radiation
Diagnosis
There are various diagnostic tests and procedures to help confirm the presence of breast cancer and these include:
- Breast Exam: Both the breasts and lymph nodes in your armpit will be examined by the doctor for any lumps or other anomalies.
- Mammogram: X-ray of the breast is called as mammogram. It is done to check for the presence of breast cancer. If any anomaly is detected while screening, further diagnostic tests are recommended by the physician.
- Breast Ultrasound: The deep structures of the body are visible clearly after an ultrasound. It helps in the determination of the type of breast lump, whether it is a solid mass or a fluid filled cyst.
- Biopsy (Collection of a sample of breast cells): It is the only procedure that aids in confirmation of the cancer and tells us the type of cells involved in breast cancer, the aggressiveness of the cancer or if any hormone receptors/other receptors are present that may influence treatment options.
- Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Before going for MRI, a dye is injected into you body, so that clear picture of affected areas of breast are created.
Treatment
- The appropriate treatment option is decided on the type of breast cancer, its stage, grade and size and if the cells are sensitive to hormones by your doctor. Your overall health and preferences are also considered by your physician.
- Surgery is the preferred option for majority of women followed by additional treatments such as radiation, hormone therapy or chemotherapy. In some cases, chemotherapy may be administered prior to surgery.
