Breast cancer is a disease that is feared by all women. It is the second most commonly occurring cancer in women. However, survival rates have improved dramatically in recent years due to the advances that are taking place in the methods of diagnosis and treatment of the disease, and most importantly due to increased awareness.
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells start developing in the tissues of the breast. This growth may be restricted to the breast or may spread into other areas of the body as well. Most commonly, the cancer originates in the ducts that are used for transporting milk to the nipple.
Cancerous cells may also develop in the tiny sacs in which milk is produced. These sacs are known as lobules. Other tissues of the breast may also be vulnerable to the growth of abnormal cells. The type of breast cancer differs from case to case, and as such the course of treatment is selected on the basis of the individual’s requirements. Breast cancer may appear in different forms. Many cases of breast cancer that are detected early are categorized as breast cancer in situ, also called noninvasive cancer. Two types of this breast cancer are DCIS, in which the abnormal cells are present in the milk duct lining, and LCIS, in which the cancer cells are found in the lining of the milk sac. In invasive breast cancer, the cancerous cells develop in the milk ducts or sacs and spread to the surrounding tissues. Metastatic breast cancer is the form in which the cancer originates in the breast, but then spreads to the blood or lymphatic system outside of the breast. In locally advanced breast cancer, the cancer is of the inflammatory type and the breast may become tender and red. Recurrent breast cancer re-occurs after treatment has been conducted.
The cancer in its early stage does not cause any pain, and there may also not be any symptoms. As the cancer develops, certain symptoms start occurring. A thickened area or a lump may be found in the breast area or near the underarm. The breast may also change in shape or size. Tenderness or discharge may occur from the nipple and pitting of the breast may be detected. The skin of the breast may also appear or feel different. Treatments for breast cancer include chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiation therapy and surgery. The treatment may be local such as radiation and surgery which destroy the cancerous cells in the area. Systemic treatment involves destroying the cancerous cells that maybe present in the entire body.
