While many people know the basics of breast cancer, such as its stages and treatment options, one lesser-known fact about breast cancer is that it has different types. Based on the types, the gynecologist in Airoli determines the most suitable treatment plan for the patient’s case. In this post, we’ve looked at the four such types of breast cancer.
1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
The earliest form (also called stage 0) of breast cancer is DCIS, i.e., when it’s in situ. In Situ means the cancer cells haven’t crossed the duct walls. The mass forms within the milk ducts, which carry milk to the nipples. However, as the mass grows, the chances of it breaking through the ducts and the breast fat increase significantly.
Symptoms and Treatment
Unfortunately, the symptoms of breast cancer aren’t very obvious at this stage, although some women report unusual discharge from the nipples and a small lump. If Ductal Carcinoma In Situ is caught, the patient’s treatment outcome is considered excellent.
Based on the size of the mass, the doctor may recommend removal of the lump, followed by radiation or hormone therapy, or breast removal if the mass covers a large portion of the breast.
2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
Around 70 to 80 percent of breast cancers are Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. These also begin in the milk ducts, but have already spread to the other parts of the breast. There’s also a chance that the cancer cells might invade the lymph nodes or grow into other parts of the body (metastasize).
Symptoms
- Lump in the armpit or breast
- Change in the breast appearance
- Bloody discharge from the nipples
Treatment
- Mastectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy (for ER+ or PR+ cancers)
3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
This cancer is the second most common type, accounting for 5-10 percent of all breast cancer cases. It grows in the milk lobules, the glands that produce milk. However, it doesn’t usually appear on mammograms and is often considered difficult to detect, as there may not be visible lumps or other symptoms.
Symptoms
- Changes in the shape of the breasts
- Skin dimpling
- Nipples inversion
Treatment
- Surgical removal of the tumor
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Hormone therapy
4. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer does not respond to estrogen or progesterone receptors. That means the cancer won’t respond to the hormone therapies. This makes it the most aggressive form of breast cancer. Around 10-15 percent of breast cancers fall into the triple-negative category.
Symptoms
- A lump that grows quickly
- Changes in your breast’s texture
- Swelling in the breast
- Tenderness
Treatment
The most effective triple-negative breast cancer treatment in Airoli is chemotherapy and surgery. It’s followed by radiation.
Conclusion
The different types of breast cancers may seem overwhelming, but the more information you have about these types, the better you’ll be able to make decisions about the treatment. Regular checkups, mammograms, and awareness can help make a big difference to the success rate of your treatment and recovery.
