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Spots on the mammary gland with oncology. How to identify breast cancer in women: symptoms and causes. Comparison of Similar Symptoms with Other Breast Diseases

Symptoms of a breast tumor in women in the early stages of development often do not manifest themselves in any way. This is where their danger lies. All types of breast tumors are divided into benign and malignant. The number of these diseases continues to grow steadily and get younger. Benign tumors in the mammary gland are classified as mastopathy, and there are more than 50 types of them. Clinicians distinguish between the most common forms - nodular and diffuse mastopathy.

Symptoms of a breast tumor in women in the early stages of development often do not manifest themselves in any way.

The mammary glands are 2/3 composed of glandular tissue, which ensures their functioning. And when the cells of this tissue begin to divide uncontrollably, various neoplasms appear. All breast tumors are mostly hormone-dependent, so hormonal disruptions are a ready ground for the development of tumors.

The exact reasons are still unknown today, but a number of provoking factors have been identified that can serve as a trigger:

  • genetic predisposition - with it, the risk of cancer in the offspring doubles;
  • elderly age- from 55 to 65 years old;
  • early menarche;
  • late menopause - after 55 years;
  • prolonged climacteric syndrome;
  • absence of pregnancy and childbirth up to 30 years;
  • the woman did not breastfeed;
  • frequent abortions;
  • lack of sexual activity;
  • late childbirth and pregnancy - after 35 years;
  • inflammatory diseases of the ovaries;
  • infertility;
  • any tumors and cysts of the ovaries;
  • endocrinopathies - diabetes mellitus, disorders of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary tumors;
  • long-term reception OK;
  • any injury to the mammary glands;
  • radiation;
  • obesity;
  • hypodynamia;
  • stress;
  • tight underwear;
  • hypovitaminosis A, E, D, C;
  • smoking and alcohol - taking even small portions of alcohol, but regularly, increases the risk of breast cancer, CAS by 50%;
  • insolation, topless sunbathing;
  • bad ecology;
  • hepatitis;
  • inflammatory diseases of the genital area of ​​a chronic nature.

Breast cancer symptoms (video)

Benign formations

Mastopathy - hormone-dependent growths of connective and glandular tissues in different proportions. Therefore, diffuse and nodular mastopathy are distinguished. Diffuse mastopathy occurs more often at a young age, responds well conservative treatment... This pathology is characterized by small multiple growths that are common throughout the mammary gland. For diffuse mastopathy, a connection with the menstrual cycle is characteristic, in the second half of it, chest pains and swelling of the glands are always found. With the nodular form, single nodes are formed, this is typical for the elderly. Treatment is only surgical - excision of the node.

Forms of mastopathy:

  1. Fibrocystic mastopathy(FCM) - mainly the connective tissues of the mammary gland are affected. They grow, which leads to a decrease in the lumen of the milk ducts or their complete blockage. Over time, cysts begin to form in such a gland.
  2. Cysts are cavities in the mammary gland filled with liquid contents. In the chest they can be different sizes usually associated with menstruation. Cysts occur when a blockage occurs in the duct, while the secretion of the lactiferous duct accumulates and, having no outlet, is converted into a cyst. They can be single or multiple. Most often, with small sizes, they do not appear in any way, but then before menstruation, there is a burning sensation and soreness in the chest. If a cyst is filled with milk, it is called a galactocele. It is an enlargement of the lactiferous duct, arises in lactating women who have had problems with hepatitis B in the form of lactostasis or mastitis.
  3. Fibroadenoma - it is characterized by the proliferation of connective and glandular tissues. This tumor in the chest looks like a dense solid lump. Fibroadenomas are the most common. They look like round tumors with clear boundaries - soft, elastic, mobile and not adhered to the underlying tissues. They appear more often in women under 35 years of age. They can be up to 5 cm in diameter. Fibroadenomas are common and leaf-shaped. They are considered hormone dependent. A phyloid or leaf-shaped tumor is defined as a type of fibroadenoma - it is also benign. It is found less often than all, but it is considered the most dangerous in terms of malignancy and degeneration into sarcoma (in 10% of cases). Its signs: clear boundaries, absence of a capsule, immobility, pain on palpation. This type of tumor is treated only surgically, without attempts at conservative therapy. During operations, not only the tumor itself is removed, but also adjacent tissues. Even after such treatment, relapses are possible for 4 years.
  4. Lipoma is a benign formation of adipose tissue, a wen. The formation is usually soft, elastic, spherical. Lipoma does not require treatment, it grows very slowly and does not manifest itself. Only if it, increasing, begins to squeeze the vessels and nerves, it is surgically removed.
  5. Intraductal papillomas - outgrowths of tissue resembling papillae are formed from the epithelium of the ducts. Their structure is similar to skin papillomas, for which the pathology got its name. With this form of mastopathy characteristic symptom are nipple discharge, usually brown. Their volume is different - from plentiful to 2-3 drops per day. They are dangerous in that they can be reborn, therefore, their sectoral excision is carried out.
  6. Lipogranuloma - most often the result of injury, radiation, or sudden weight loss. In this case, any area of ​​the injured, usually adipose tissue ceases to receive nutrition due to destroyed capillaries and begins to transform into aseptic fat necrosis.
  7. Adenoma is a hormone-dependent benign tumor in the breast. It develops from the glandular epithelium. It occurs at a young age, after 40 it does not occur. It is presented as an elastic ball under the skin, usually shallow, therefore palpation is possible. It can be single or multiple, on one or two mammary glands. Treatment involves only surgery.

Malignant tumors of the breast

These formations have a very complex classification according to the localization and metabolism of cells - more than 10 species. In addition, they are subdivided into sarcomas, adenocarcinomas, and carcinomas. According to biochemical parameters, they are divided into hormone-dependent, invasive and estrogen-dependent, primary and secondary tumors.

Malignant tumors of the mammary gland also often develop from the ducts. The body cannot control the unrestrained growth and division of cells, and the cells, growing, begin to penetrate into neighboring areas. Breast cancer is a disease of older women. If at the age of 30 years breast cancer occurs only in every 400 women, then after 50 years - in every 38.

Forms of malignant tumors:

  1. Nodular - a seal in the form of a painless knot that does not have clear boundaries.
  2. Erysipelas is a very aggressive breast tumor that quickly metastasizes.
  3. Edematous - there is no specific compaction, but the skin diffusely thickens, it is hyperemic, has dense edges.
  4. Mastitis-like - it resembles mastitis by signs, differential diagnosis is required.
  5. Diffuse - looks like a diffuse infiltrate that affects the glandular tissue in different organs. Also an aggressive form of cancer.
  6. Hidden - with it, the reaction comes from the lymph nodes, which hypertrophy, metastases appear in them, and the signs in the gland itself are delayed.

Clinical forms of cancer:

  1. Nodular cancer is the most common cancer. It is usually localized in the upper outer quadrants of the mammary gland. It quickly grows into the underlying tissues. Its risk of occurrence increases with age. The nodes in this cancer are dense, have no clear boundaries. With rapid growth, the manifestation of this type of cancer is characterized by the change of nodes to tubercles, which grow onto the surface of the skin and open up in the form of bleeding ulcers. Over time, the tumor disintegrates, a fetid odor appears. Necrosis can go down to the bones. Patients suffer from pain. Secondary infection and death easily occurs.
  2. Diffuse cancer is less common, but poor in prognosis. The gland is all permeated with this tumor, it increases in size, reddens, swells and hurts. It has no clear boundaries. Diffuse cancer has several varieties. The edematous form is distinguished by skin in the form of a lemon peel. The mastitis form leads to necrosis. Carapace - the gland is reduced in size, the nipple is retracted, the breast is severely deformed. The gland tissue and subcutaneous fat are completely affected. There is a scattering of pinkish nodular infiltrates over the entire surface of the breast skin. This form of cancer quickly metastases.
  3. Nipple cancer, or Paget's disease, is the third form of breast cancer. This is intraductal breast carcinoma. It can also be found in men. Outwardly, nipple cancer is similar to eczema in the area of ​​the nipple and areola. Its first signs are in the form of scales on or around the nipple. The nipple gradually begins to retract, and the dense infiltrate around it increases and grows into the underlying tissues. The skin in this part of the gland becomes inflamed, the color turns crimson. Weeping sores are formed, they periodically become covered with a crust. The tumor grows slowly, metastases in the lymph nodes can be in the absence of treatment. Treatment is only in the form of mastectomy followed by radiation and chemotherapy, as well as hormonal treatment. The patient should be constantly monitored by a mammologist, because the tumor is prone to frequent relapse.
  4. Breast sarcoma is also a malignant neoplasm in the gland. It develops from connective tissue, this differs from breast cancer, which often occurs when the epithelium grows. Sarcoma is an aggressive tumor with rapid growth, germination and metastasis. On palpation, it is bumpy, dense, the skin above it is thinned, hyperemic, the venous network on the chest is strengthened. Mastectomy for sarcoma is only extended - with complete removal of all axillary, subclavian lymph nodes. Further, radiation and chemotherapy are prescribed.

Symptomatic manifestations

At an early stage, any breast tumor in women is small and often undetectable. But benign tumors from the very beginning appear more vivid and painful than malignant neoplasms. As they grow with various pathologies, they begin to squeeze neighboring tissues, blood vessels, nerve endings, and then obvious symptoms appear.

The initial stage proceeds without any signs, a tumor is detected at this stage of development, often by accident during other studies. The first signs are the appearance of seals, determined by palpation. You can also notice:

  • changes in the structure of the gland tissue, breast shape, skin color;
  • peeling;
  • the skin in malignant neoplasms is always wrinkled over the tumor;
  • constantly inverted wrinkled nipple;
  • if you put your hands behind your head, pits appear on the chest;
  • discharge from the nipples: transparent or yellowish - this is mastopathy, green - a sign of infection and with blood - with malignant tumors;
  • unilateral enlargement of the lymph nodes;
  • discomfort and chest pain.

At an early stage, any breast tumor in women is small and often undetectable.

Symptoms at different stages of cancer

Breast cancer has 4 stages and zero. Clinical symptoms become more pronounced in stage 2. The effect of treatment is maximum at stage 1 - 96%.

Zero stage - the course is non-invasive. This means that the tumor is growing, but has not yet penetrated into adjacent tissues. Dimensions do not exceed 2 cm, found during self-examination. There are no other manifestations.

The first stage - the neoplasm is already invasive. The size becomes more than 2 cm, begins to germinate into adjacent tissues. At this stage, a change in skin color may appear: redness, peeling, wrinkling, but there is no pain or discomfort yet.

The second stage - the size of the tumor is more than 5 cm. Atypical cells begin to spread into the lymph, the lymph nodes react. They increase, the skin of the breast turns red, and discomfort appears. 0-2 stages are considered early, the prognosis of treatment is very encouraging.

The third stage is 3A and 3B. Stage 3A - there is an accumulation of cancer cells in the lymph nodes, the tumor size exceeds 5 cm. Stage 3B - the neoplasm grows into the underlying and adjacent tissues. Pain and discharge become constant.

The fourth stage is the last. General symptoms and distant metastases develop - in the lungs, liver and brain.

General differences between neoplasms

Benign breast tumors are characterized by slow growth... They do not grow into adjacent tissues, but only push them apart, rarely give relapses. Mastopathy can recur when the tumor has a base (leg). Benign tumors develop from any tissue, and malignant - more often from the epithelium. Among the symptoms benign formations:

  • pulling chest pains in the second half menstrual cycle;
  • feeling of breast swelling;
  • feeling of heat;
  • seals on palpation.

There are no severe pains with benign tumors. There is no wrinkling of the skin, breast edema and nipple discharge.

Malignant neoplasms affect the mammary gland more often in the upper-outer quadrants, in the lower parts they are less common. Cancer tumors grow quickly and everywhere. Benign ones do not cause general symptoms, cause only local discomfort. With cancer, there are common symptoms in the form of intoxication, pallor, weight loss.

With mastopathy, the seals are mobile, painful on palpation, the growth of lymph nodes is not observed, there is a dependence on menstruation. The tumor is usually smooth and elastic.

A malignant neoplasm of the mammary gland often does not hurt, it looks like a large, dense, immobile node. At the same time, the axillary lymph nodes are enlarged, bloody issues from the nipples.

Differences between cysts and malignant tumors: a cyst is formed from normal tissues, there are no atypical cells in it. It does not grow into adjacent tissues, is small, and can be twisted and torn. The tumor never ruptures.

Differences between fibroadenoma and malignant tumors: fibroadenoma is always smooth, elastic, spherical, mobile on palpation.

Diagnostic measures

The gold standard of diagnostics is a triple study: mammography, ultrasound, biopsy. Along with this, CT, MRI, ductography are used. In the latter case, a contrast agent is injected into the mammary gland duct - a water-soluble X-ray contrast.

There is such a type of research as thermography. In this technique, the doctor determines the size of the tumor and the percentage of breast damage using the monitor based on the temperature difference in different parts of the breast.

Determination of tumor markers in the blood - special proteins that are produced by atypical cells - can help. They help to identify the tumor earlier than conventional methods. Breast tumor markers CA-15-3.

Primary signs of breast cancer (video)

Treatment principles

Benign tumors can be treated conservatively and surgically. Treatment of malignant tumors is only surgical. Taking into account the size and germination into the lymph tissue, 2 types of operations are performed: organ-preserving and mastectomy.

Organ-preserving techniques:

  1. Tumor embolization - an embolus is injected into the largest vessel feeding the neoplasm, which creates ischemia for the tumor. This leads to her death.
  2. Quadrantectomy - a quarter of the breast with the formation and axillary lymph nodes is removed.
  3. Radical resection is performed in the early stages of breast cancer. The affected sector of the chest, part of the pectoralis major muscle and part of the lymph nodes are removed. The size of the tumor should not be more than 3 cm, it should be localized only in the upper outer quadrant. With a different arrangement and diffuse formation, this method is not used.

After sparing operations, it is mandatory radiation therapy the remainder of the breast to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Mastectomy is performed in 4 ways:

  1. Simple mastectomy - removal of only the gland.
  2. Radical Modified Mastectomy - the entire gland is removed, as well as the axillary lymph nodes and the membrane of the pectoralis major muscle.
  3. Halstead radical mastectomy is performed when the tumor grows into the muscles of the chest. It removes the gland, both pectoral muscles, fatty tissue and lymph nodes in all adjacent areas.
  4. Bilateral (bilateral) mastectomy - removal of both glands. It is used for cancer in both glands. Such an operation is also carried out at the request of a woman if she is afraid of relapse.

Any operations are performed under general anesthesia.

Drug therapy

Chemotherapy is given right after or before surgery to shrink the tumor. With metastases, chemotherapy does not lead to recovery, but only improves the quality of life.

Hormone therapy is used only for hormone-dependent tumors. It has the goal of preventing estrogen and progesterone from fusing with hormone receptors in breast cancer, because such fusion accelerates the growth of the cancer. 65% of atypical cells have hormone receptors. The female hormone estrogen is of great importance in the development of breast cancer. The LH-RH agonists used for treatment (Leuprolide and Goserelin) block the production of estrogen in the ovaries. They are used as injections into the abdominal area. Another method of eliminating estrogen is by removing the ovaries, which are the main producers of this hormone. After removal, estrogen levels drop dramatically. In postmenopausal women, removal of the ovaries has no effect.

Palliative therapy is carried out in the last stages of cancer, not for recovery, but only to improve the quality of life and reduce pain. For this, narcotic and non-narcotic analgesics are used.

After operations it is necessary:

  • conduct breast self-examination monthly;
  • visit a doctor - in the first year every 3 months, in the second and third years - once every 6 months, then once a year.

For prevention, you should:

  • undergo mammography annually after 50 years;
  • plan a pregnancy up to 35 years old;
  • fully breastfeed the baby after childbirth;
  • normalize weight and hormones under the supervision of a doctor;
  • take OK only under the supervision of a gynecologist;
  • with hereditary cancer, preventive mastectomy, removal of the ovaries and taking tamoxifen can help (tamoxifen slows down the growth of existing atypical cells and reduces relapses; taken for a long time - for 5 years);
  • to refuse from bad habits;
  • have sex regularly.

60% of patients with early cancer surgery can live another 5 years. At stages 3 and 4, the survival rate is only 35%.

One of the most common cancers affecting the female body is breast cancer (BC). Breast cancer accounts for approximately 16% of all cancers. Every year 600 thousand women die from this disease. The section of medicine - mammology - deals with the study, treatment and prevention of breast cancer.

The structure of the woman's sternum

Healthy female breasts have a convex shape. Inside it are the mammary glands and their ducts that go to the nipples. Most of the breasts are fatty tissue.

The reason for the development of breast cancer lies in the genetic predisposition to this disease and the influence of the environment. Women over the age of 50 are more prone to breast cancer due to their lower production of sex hormones. Women who give birth for the first time after 30 years are also at risk.

It is almost impossible to recognize the disease. It makes itself felt at later stages, which is the problem for its elimination. You can find out what breast cancer looks like using pictures of the disease and knowing its symptoms.

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Symptoms and signs of breast cancer.

Is breast cancer visible at the initial stage of its development?

A woman should be alerted to any changes in her breasts. External signs skin peeling, swelling, pits, spots, and nipple soreness can also indicate cysts and various infections. Such manifestations can be harbingers of oncology.

Breast cancer symptoms:


One of the rare types of breast cancer is called Paget's disease (cancer of the nipple of the breast). Its main symptoms: peeling or scaly skin of the nipple, burning, rash, redness, retraction of the skin of the nipple inward.


Types of breast tumors by shape:

  • Erysipelas is accompanied by the appearance of a red spot on the woman's sternum with uneven edges, resembling a tongue of flame. The knot has not yet been groped, patients have a temperature rise of up to 40 degrees. Redness rapidly spreads to the chest wall. Erysipelas metastases to other organs and lymph nodes;
  • Edematous form - observed in young women during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is not accompanied by pain, but when palpating the breast, a patient with cancer is accompanied by edema, a tumor nodule is felt. The breast tissue thickens and turns red;
  • Armor cancer - with it, the breast becomes smaller, which is accompanied by its redness, and cracks and erosion may appear on the nipple. There is a feeling of stiffness in the chest like a shell;
  • Paget's cancer develops in the area of ​​the nipples and areola. It is accompanied by itching, burning, discharge. This form of cancer is considered favorable due to the obvious appearance of erosion and destruction of the nipples;
  • Mastitis-like cancer - occurs in pregnant and lactating women. At first, there is a thickening of a certain area of ​​the breast, the appearance of redness, an increase in body temperature;
  • Latent cancer manifests itself with an enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes. This symptom is often confused with other medical conditions. Only after the spread of metastases, a woman, if she is sick, turns to an oncologist, but there is practically no chance of curing the disease.

Video - Breast cancer

Breast cancer stages

First stage- the initial stage, a primary nodule is formed. Its size is about 2 cm. It has no external manifestations. At this stage, cancer cells are transferred to other tissues.

Second stage- the nodule becomes denser and increases up to 5 cm. It is at this stage that many women reveal the development of oncology. Discharge from the chest appears, axillary lymph nodes may increase in size. Breast deformity may occur at this stage. You must immediately consult with your oncologist.

Third stage- a malignant cancer tumor grows into the chest wall, becomes more than 5 cm, an unpleasant putrid odor appears, lemon peel on the mammary gland.

Stage four- spread of metastases to distant organs - armpits, neck. At this stage, the tumor is considered inoperable.

The probability of cure for breast cancer is high at stages 1 and 2 and is about 70%. At stage 3, the probability of cure is 50%, and at stage 4, a complete cure is impossible, patients are helped by symptomatic treatment, which temporarily alleviates the condition and prolongs life by 5 years.

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How to recognize breast cancer?

You should not wait for the appearance of certain signs of the disease. It is necessary to regularly conduct examinations to protect yourself from this disease or. For this, women of different ages in order to necessary:

  • Systematically independently examine the breast by examining the organ with fingers (palpation). To do this, one hand probes the chest, and the other hand is placed behind the head;
  • Women between the ages of 20 and 30 should undergo regular examinations, as well as have a mammogram every 2-3 years;
  • Women over 40 years old need a mandatory mammogram.

Diagnostic methods for breast cancer:

Breast cancer treatment.

A number of methods are used to treat breast cancer, such as:

  • Chemotherapy- apply medications suppressing the growth of cancer cells;
  • Radiation therapy- irradiation of the tumor, used before surgery to stop tumor growth and to prevent the development of relapses;
  • Surgical intervention- the main method of fighting cancer; part of the breast can be removed at the initial stage, or the entire organ at later stages. The area of ​​the pectoral muscles may also be affected and The lymph nodes;
  • Hormone therapy- the tumor is reduced due to the use of hormonal drugs;
  • Immunotherapy- destroys single cancer cells using monoclonal antibodies. Also used to prevent relapse.

Every woman is able to detect breast cancer. To do this, you need to know what breast pathologies look like. This task will be facilitated by depicting tumors in pictures and knowing the symptoms of the disease. Every month, a woman should independently palpate (feeling the breast) clockwise. If you identify any sign in yourself, you must immediately consult a doctor.

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. It is the most common cancer in women, although it also affects men. The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but some women are at higher risk than others.

This is a category of women who have a negative heredity for breast cancer, and women with certain gene mutations. Women whose menstrual cycle began in early age, menopause - at a later age, or those who have never been pregnant.

Treatment results are always better if breast cancer is diagnosed and treated for early stage... It is important to have regular breast exams and schedule mammograms starting at age 45. If a woman is at risk, diagnostics should be carried out regularly, starting at the age of 40.

It is better to agree on a breast cancer screening schedule with your mammologist.

Because mutated cells can metastasize or spread to other organs, it is important to recognize early signs of breast cancer. If the disease is diagnosed at the initial stage and treatment is started, the prognosis is favorable.

How to distinguish pathology from other diseases?

Often women, feeling pain and tenderness in their breasts, assume that they have cancer. However, discomfort is rarely the first noticeable symptom of cancer. Many other factors can lead to pain.

Clinically known as mastalgia, chest pain can be caused by:


A lump in the breast is usually associated with breast cancer, but in most cases, a lump in the breast is not cancer. The reason for the formation of seals can be very diverse: from hormonal changes in the body to damaged adipose tissue.

More than 90 percent of all breast lumps in women between the ages of 20 and 50 are benign.

The most common causes of benign breast lumps are:

  • breast infections;
  • fibrocystic disease;
  • fibroadenoma (non-cancerous tumor);
  • fat cell necrosis (damaged tissue).

Fat necrosis is very difficult to distinguish from a malignant tumor without analyzing the elements of the gland tissue.

Signs of pathology and early and late stage

Early signs of breast cancer include:

Later signs of breast cancer include:


If a patient has several of these symptoms, this does not mean the presence of a malignant tumor. Only a doctor, by prescribing additional studies, can make a diagnosis.

If breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it is called metastatic cancer or stage 4 breast cancer. The organs most commonly affected by metastatic cancer are bones, lungs, brain, and liver. Symptoms will vary depending on the organs affected by the cancer.

Symptoms of bone metastases include bone pain and increased bone fragility.

Signs of possible brain damage include vision changes, seizures, frequent headaches, and nausea.

If liver metastases are present, symptoms include:


People with lung metastases may experience chest pain, chronic cough, or breathing problems.

The presence of these symptoms does not mean that the tumor has spread to neighboring organs. Depression or anxiety often endows the common symptoms of a cold or infection with nonexistent symptoms. It is possible to talk about metastases only if special diagnostics have shown their presence.

Types of pathology and features of their external manifestation

Breast cancer is often a type of cancer called adenocarcinoma that develops in glandular tissue. Other cancers such as sarcoma, which affects muscle, adipose, or connective tissue, can also develop in the breast.

Sometimes, a single tumor can be a combination of different types of cancer. And in some cases, cancer cells do not form tumors at all. Malignant tumors can be classified into different types depending on how the cancer cells look under a microscope and how the appearance of the breast changes:

Intraductal carcinoma

Ductal carcinoma, also known as intraductal carcinoma, is considered a non-invasive or pre-invasive type of cancer. This means that the cells of the channels have changed and look like atypical cells. The difference between non-invasive and invasive disease is that the mutated cells have not penetrated through the duct walls into the surrounding tissue.

In about one out of five cases, intraductal carcinoma is diagnosed.

Symptoms of the disease:


The external manifestations of the disease can resemble mastitis, erysipelas and other inflammatory diseases. Initial symptoms are usually blurred or absent. If the disease is diagnosed at this stage, the treatment gives a 100% result.

Invasive (or infiltrative) ductal or focal carcinoma

In ductal carcinoma, cells in the milk duct are first affected, then the tumor breaks through the wall of the airway and grows in the adipose tissue of the gland. Cancer can spread to other organs using the lymphatic system and blood.

You can talk about ductal carcinoma if the following characteristic signs are found:


Invasive (or infiltrative) focal carcinoma affects the milk-producing lobes of the mammary glands. About 1 in 10 cases of invasive breast cancer is focal. It is difficult to diagnose even with the help of mammography, because it manifests itself not as a tumor, but as a small lump that is difficult to feel.

Inflammatory breast cancer and Paget's disease

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare type of disease that accounts for about 1% to 3% of all cancers. Its peculiarity is the absence of a tumor. The main symptom is red, hot breast skin. Outwardly, it may look like an orange peel, coarse and thicken. The affected breasts appear larger and healthier. Sometimes patients complain of itching.

The severity of oncological lesions of various etiologies forces us to take our health and lifestyle more seriously. One of the most common oncological pathologies among women is breast cancer, a photo of which testifies to the variety of tumor forms, developmental features at various stages and the possible outcome of this pathology.

Breast cancer

Cancer of the breast is a common pathology, and is distinguished by a latent and aggressive course, which distinguishes it from other forms of cancerous tumors. This disease is characterized by early metastasis, therefore, it is necessary to diagnose the disease at an early stage of development.

This is especially true for women during the period of hormonal changes in their body during menopause. Photos of breast cancer show in detail the changes that occur in the mammary gland as the tumor progresses.

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  • Only a DOCTOR can deliver an EXACT DIAGNOSIS!
  • We kindly ask you NOT to self-medicate, but to make an appointment with a specialist!
  • Health to you and your loved ones! Do not give up

Symptoms and Signs

Cancer neoplasm of the mammary gland is distinguished by its variability: there are several different forms neoplasms. At an early stage of development, when the tumor is small, there are no symptoms of the disease. It is possible to detect the presence of a neoplasm by chance, with an accidental palpation of the mammary gland.

Specific symptoms can be very different, depending on the clinical form of tumor growth. Specialists distinguish between diffuse, nodular forms of cancer, Paget's cancer.

initial stage

The initial stage of the tumor process has no external manifestations, there is no symptomatology at this stage, and the tumor is small in size, and it can only be detected by mammographic examination of the female pectoral muscle.

Stages

In general, breast cancer goes through 4 stages of its development. By the presence of the identified symptoms, the current stage of the tumor can be diagnosed.

Stage 1

The tumor reaches only 2 cm. Regional metastases are still absent, and there is no growth in the breast muscle tissue. No external changes were revealed. With a ten-year period, the survival rate is 98%.

Stage 2

Education ranges from 2-5 cm without signs of damage to the lymph nodes or the tumor is small up to 2 cm, but metastasis is observed in 4 lymph nodes. The "platform" syndrome develops, and shallow wrinkles appear on the surface of the breast. With a five-year period, the survival rate is 78-89%.

Stage 3

The size of the tumor reaches more than 5 cm, it metastasizes to the lymph nodes, or grows into the skin. The development of "lemon peel" and umbilization is observed. The survival rate ranges from 40-60%.

Stage 4

Stage 4 of the development of the tumor process of the mammary gland is considered the very last, and therefore the most severe. At this stage, the tumor goes beyond chest spread of metastases to distant internal organs, multiple ulcerations are observed, Even with adequate treatment, the survival rate is no more than 10% of patients.

After operation

Surgery oncopathology of the mammary gland is carried out in two ways: in the first case, a radical mastectomy is performed with the removal of the pectoralis minor and / or pectoralis major muscle, and in the second, sectoral resection, in which part of the muscle is removed, and the breast is preserved. In this case, a return of relapse is possible, so the patient is prescribed radiation therapy.

Nipple for breast cancer

One of the first symptoms confirming the development of breast cancer is a change in the type and structure of the nipples. They change color and become pulled inward. Later, characteristic ulcerations appear on the nipples.

In order not to become a victim of statistics, and not to get sick with breast cancer, it is necessary to change your lifestyle, as well as to carry out preventive measures, including regular examination of the breast at home. These simple procedures will help you avoid a terrible disease and give you many years of happiness.

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Symptoms and photos of breast cancer

There are many common cancers in the world that affect the female body. One of them is a malignant lesion of the breast. It accounts for 16% of the total number of all oncology. In 22.9% of cases, the invasive (common) form occurs. And 18.2% of all deaths are caused by this very oncological disease. Therefore, you need to know what breast cancer looks like, the symptoms, photo and description of which will be outlined and described below.

The most common and accurate manifestations of breast cancer

Lump, lump in the gland

The first sign of breast cancer for many women is the feeling of a lump. But in 9 out of 10 cases (90%), after a thorough diagnosis, the seal is benign. However, in any case, if an unusual condition of an organ is detected, you should consult a mammologist.

Swelling and swelling in the chest or axillary tissue

This condition may be due to hormonal changes. But if the thickening persists for a long period of time, then this should cause anxiety in the woman. Life-safe factors for the formation of puffiness include:

  • possible presence of a cyst;
  • a problem in the airway or in the lobes of the breast;
  • swelling in the armpit at the site of the lymph nodes often indicates the body's struggle with the invasion of foreign bacteria or viruses.
Paget's cancer is one of the most common forms of breast cancer

Learn: Breast Cancer: Life Expectancy

Change in the size and shape of mature breasts

If the breast an adult woman changes its parameters, this may signal that the milk ducts or lobules deep in the tissue have edema. A change in only one breast should be especially alarming. Possible non-cancerous causes are caused by:

  1. Fibrocystic changes.
  2. Monthly menstrual cycle.

Basic mammography can help you track changes accurately.

Leaking fluid and blood (not milk) from the nipple

Often this circumstance occurs at the age of 21-48 years due to a strong hormonal influence and is not a disease. However, if fluid leaks from only one nipple or has bloody impurities, medical testing should be done immediately for an accurate diagnosis.

Changes in the color, shape, texture of the nipple or areola of the breast

Factors such as dimples, rashes, roughness or the presence of wrinkled skin for an extended period require specialist advice. Particular attention should be paid to skin conditions that do not respond to topical treatment with creams. This could be a symptom of breast cancer (photo).

One of the more unusual types of breast cancer is known as Paget's disease. It begins to manifest itself as a scaly rash.

Other changes are characterized by:

  • increased temperature in this area;
  • the presence of a skin texture like an orange peel with a red tint;
  • bumps, itching, burning around the nipple.

Highlighting the area of ​​the chest or armpits in the general well-being of a woman due to the manifestation of any signs of discomfort:

  • the presence of a marble shade;
  • bulging and / or discoloration of the skin;
  • periodic tingling, coarsening, etc.

Fancy pain in the chest or armpit. Pay attention to discomfort that occurs outside the cycle and only on one side.

Regardless of the reason, any change in the state of the mammary glands requires referral to specialists.

How to recognize breast cancer?

You shouldn't always expect any symptoms to appear. Conducting regular examinations will help protect against the disease or detect it in the early stages. Therefore, women at different ages are recommended:

  1. Regularly conduct breast self-examination, which consists in a thorough examination of the organ with your fingers. In this case, one raised hand is placed behind the head, the other probes the organ.
  2. For women from 20 to 30 years old, it is advisable to regularly undergo a general clinical examination, as well as to do mammography once every two to three years.
  3. Women after 40 years of age must adhere to the rules for undergoing mammography.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests Every Woman Needs

Any condition of the mammary glands that worries a woman and causes suspicion of cancer should be discussed and verified by a specialist. Sometimes the doctor asks to come for an examination in a few weeks in order to analyze the dynamics depending on changes in hormonal background.

Early diagnosis of cancer and tests to identify symptoms of breast cancer include:

  1. Clinical examination of the glands, which is an important tool for detecting changes.
  2. Women under 35 are advised to have an ultrasound scan rather than a mammogram to avoid radiation. The device is able to show the presence of a lump and its features. Also, ultrasound distinguishes benign neoplasms in women from malignant ones.
  3. Mammography. It is indicated in order to detect cancer in the early stages, even before the feeling of certain symptoms.
  4. If necessary, a tissue biopsy is done for examination under a microscope. It assumes different ways:
  • using a fine needle and syringe to collect cell samples from a suspected tumor;
  • pivotal, which allows you to recognize the exact type of cancer, as well as find out the stage and response to hormones;
  • vacuum is carried out using a small incision;
  • invasive methods, which involve surgical excision of the affected tissue.

In many cases, a woman can recognize breast cancer on her own. Symptoms and photos of the disease can provide early diagnosis. However, all questions of concern must be discussed with a doctor.

orake.info

Photos of what Breast Cancer looks like: real photos of women

Breast cancer (BC) is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast of a malignant nature. It is the most common cancer in women, although it can also develop in men.

The exact causes of breast cancer are unknown, but some women have higher risks than others. For example, women with a personal or family history of breast cancer and women with some known gene mutations are more likely to have breast cancer. In addition, women whose menstrual cycle began before the age of 12, as well as those women whose menopause began at an older age, have an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who have never been pregnant have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than those who have been pregnant.

The most pleasant prognosis for recovery from this cancer is given with early diagnosis of the disease. It is important to have regular breast checks and mammograms starting at age 45. Women who have risk factors should start mammograms at age 40. Talk to your doctor about which breast cancer screening schedule is best for you.

Attention: the pictures below are not for the faint of heart!

Since cancer cells can metastasize or spread to other parts of the body, it is important to detect breast cancer symptoms early. The sooner you receive a diagnosis and start treatment, the better the prognosis.

You can learn more about breast cancer in our article:

The link below is for a great article on breast cancer. In it, we consider various types of tumors that have a malignant course. In addition, here you can find a lot of useful information about diagnosis, self-diagnosis, palpation and treatment methods.

More details

And despite the fact that early signs malignant pathology is easier to feel than to see, we will show you real photos different types cancerous lesions of the breast. This will help you get the most complete picture of what breast cancer looks like, especially in its early stages.

This is what breast cancer might look like. Milk discharge from the nipples.

Milk discharge from the nipples is a common occurrence when you are breastfeeding, but you should not ignore this symptom if you are not breastfeeding. An unusual discharge from your nipples can be a symptom of breast cancer.

Changes in breast size and shape are clear signs of cancer

It is not uncommon for breasts to change in size and you may notice a change in breast size during your menstrual cycle. The swelling can also increase breast tenderness, and you may feel a little uncomfortable wearing a bra or lying on your stomach. This is completely normal and rarely indicates breast cancer.

But when your breasts go through certain changes that are not related to menstrual cycles, you should not lose sight of this. If you notice unusual breast swelling, or if only one breast is swollen, talk to your doctor. In cases of normal edema, both breasts remain symmetrical.

An inverted nipple is an important signal in malignant tumors. This is what an inverted nipple looks like.

Your nipple may change in appearance. It's okay too. But talk to your doctor if you notice an inverted nipple. Instead of being outside, the nipple is pulled into the breast. An inverted nipple alone does not guarantee cancer. Some women develop this nipple over time. However, your doctor must examine the breast and rule out cancer.

Peeling skin around the nipple

Be alert if you notice peeling skin on your breasts or around your nipples. While this is one of the signs of breast cancer, it can also be a symptom of atypical dermatitis, eczema, or another skin condition. After the examination, the doctor may run a diagnosis to rule out Paget's disease, which is a type of breast cancer that affects the nipples.

It is usually difficult to associate cutaneous on the skin of the breast with breast cancer, but in the case of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), the rash is early symptom... It is an aggressive form of breast cancer that affects the skin and lymph vessels of the breast. Unlike other types of gudi cancers, IBC is usually not accompanied by tissue lumps. However, your breasts may become swollen, warm, and red. The rash can resemble insect bite marks and is often itchy.

Strange changes in the skin of the chest

Unusual pores on the chest

A rash is not the only visual symptom of inflammatory breast cancer. In addition, this type of cancer also changes the appearance of your breasts. You may notice a dimple or sore, and the skin on your chest may look like an orange peel due to underlying inflammation.

It is important that every woman knows how to identify visible symptoms Breast cancer. Cancer can be aggressive and life-threatening, but with early diagnosis and treatment, survival rates are high.

Doing your monthly breast self-exam will greatly help you find any incipient changes. Don't be lazy to examine your breasts at least once a month. The best time for breast self-examination is a few days after the start of your menstrual cycle. If you've already started menopause, choose a specific date to have your breasts checked every month.

Read about how to self-diagnose the breast in this article. If you feel a lump or lump, see your doctor immediately. Benign tumors, cysts can cause lumpiness, but the risk of error is very high.

The five-year survival rate for stage 1 to 3 breast cancer is 100 to 72 percent. But once the cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the five-year survival rate drops to 22 percent. You can improve your chances of early detection and treatment by performing regular self-diagnostics and seeing doctors.

protivraka.su

Signs to identify breast cancer in women (photo)

With the development of a disease such as breast cancer in women, signs, photos will help to reveal the entire affected area and identify the causes of the disease.


Diagram of the structure of the breast.

Causes of sternum cancer

Unfortunately, with all a detailed study, doctors cannot yet identify the exact reasons leading to the development of a tumor in the sternum in women.

However, a number of factors have been identified that contribute to the onset of cancer:

  1. Being female is considered to be a factor that increases the risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that there are more breast cells in the female body. They, succumbing to female growth hormone, tend to degenerate into cancerous.
  2. Alcohol and smoking abuse significantly increases the likelihood of developing the disease. Especially when bad habits were acquired at an early age, during the formation of the sternum and the development of the body as a whole.
  3. Particular attention should be paid to your health if one of the blood relatives had a similar problem, since genetic predisposition is a significant factor that increases the risk of developing the disease.
  4. The likelihood of developing the disease is much higher in women after 50 years. Statistics have shown that most cases are diagnosed in this age category.
  5. Dangerous effects of radiation waves. It is dangerous for people working with x-rays or in a chemical plant.
  6. It is harmful to stay under the open sun for a long time, as it emits ultraviolet light.
  7. Improper nutrition (excessive consumption of fast food and smoked meats), subsequently - obesity ( excess weight).
  8. Some chronic diseases... These include diseases such as diabetes, hepatitis, hypothyroidism, immunodeficiency.

But it is worth noting that the presence of one or even several factors does not mean that the disease will necessarily befall you.

Cancers of the sternum include: tumors of the lungs and mammary glands, neoplasms of the skeletal system. Together, these diseases form the concept of sternum cancer. The division into stages depends on the course of the disease and its form of neglect.

The most common cancer is a disease that affects the mammary glands. An example is shown in photo 1.

Oncology stages

There are several stages of breast oncology:

Photo 1. Diagram of breast cancer.

  1. Stage 1 - lesions of the nodes and the adjacent skin area are not observed. The diameter of the lesion does not exceed 2 cm.
  2. Stage 2 is divided into two. First: deep folds begin to form in areas of the skin, a gradual decrease in elasticity occurs. The size of the tumor reaches 3-5 cm. Second: there is the formation of metastatic nodes, which are localized on the damaged side.
  3. Stage 3 - the neoplasm begins to spread to adipose tissue, increasing in diameter, and reaches a size of 5 cm or more. The epidermis in the nipple area begins to retract inward. At this stage, there may be 1-2 tumor foci.
  4. Stage 4 - a noticeable deformation occurs, involving the entire mammary gland. Many metastases appear.

Lung tumor stages in women:

Scheme of the stages of cancer development.

  1. The circulatory and lymphoid systems are not involved in the process. This stage is characterized by an insignificant amount of mutations; this structure of the tumor excludes the likelihood of metastases. The size of the neoplasm is about 3-5 cm.
  2. The tumor of the respiratory tract begins to grow and reaches a size of about 7 cm. At this stage, coughing fits, bloody sputum appear.
  3. The neoplasm exceeds a diameter of 7 cm, the walls and lymph nodes are easily involved in the process, pain syndrome appears.
  4. Terminal phase. This concept means the last stage, it is uncontrollable, there is a large proliferation of tumor cells, which is irreparable.

Bone tumors in the sternum

Diagram of the structure of the sternum.

With this lesion, deformation of hard tissues occurs. The clinical picture and severity of cancer pain directly depend on the stage of the disease.

Breast cancer is an oncological disease that, with timely diagnosis and adequate treatment, today can have a favorable prognosis and prolong a woman's full life for a long time.

However, the insidiousness of a malignant tumor, not only of the breast, but also of any other localization, lies in the fact that just at the zero, first stages of the disease, when treatment is very effective, the patient herself rarely manages to notice the incipient growth of the tumor, since the vivid symptoms of the initial stage of cancer there is no breast.

If a woman begins to experience pain, notices lumps in the chest, soreness of the lymph nodes - this most often indicates a later stage of oncology. In Russia, the task of early diagnosis of oncological diseases, for some reason, is not a priority in medicine.

Often outdated equipment, the lack of qualified narrow specialists in polyclinics, queues, and as a result, the colossal expenditure of effort, time and money stops many women. Only a few health-conscious women do breast examinations every year.

Fear of finding alarming signs of breast cancer, lack of time, lack of attention to your body, not wanting to think about bad things, to look for symptoms of diseases in yourself sometimes lead to the fact that a woman turns to medical care too late. It should be scary from the possible risk of finding a tumor at an already advanced stage of the disease, and not from the likelihood of its detection at the very beginning, with a favorable prognosis and minimal losses.

Breast Cancer Signs

The listed signs are no longer 1 and most likely not 2 stages of the oncological process.

Methods for diagnosing breast cancer

  • Medical examination by a gynecologist, mammologist
  • Mammography
  • Breast ultrasound

To clarify the diagnosis and identify possible distant metastases are shown - Chest X-ray, ultrasound of the liver, abdominal organs.

Self-diagnosis is one of the ways to control possible changes in the mammary glands; it is a simple procedure that takes no more than half an hour and should be performed only once a month. It is definitely not worth worrying about feeling yourself every day, since the difference in possible changes is more difficult to detect with frequent examination.

Examination of the mammary glands should be carried out on the 7-10th day of the menstrual cycle. To make self-diagnosis more convenient, easier and more effective, it is necessary to keep a diary where you write down your observations, everything suspicious and unusual. Often, it is the woman herself who discovers the first signs of breast cancer, but, as a rule, not at the 1st stage of the disease.

How to properly conduct breast self-examination

To conduct a high-quality self-examination of the mammary glands, you should prepare a hand cream, sit on a comfortable bed, take a large mirror, and provide maximum illumination. Sometimes it is more convenient for a woman to conduct an examination in the bathroom, with soapy hands or special gloves, which are sold in pharmacies in kits for examining the mammary glands.

  • A woman should always carefully examine the inside of the bra for any discharge from the breast, this may remain on the fabric of the linen in the form of dry crusts, yellow or brownish spots.
  • The examination should begin with a visual assessment of the size and shape of the breast in comparison with the previous examination, while standing upright with your hands down.
  • Then put your hand behind your head, carefully monitoring the uniformity of the movement of the gland. If the gland rises with a delay or when both hands are raised, one gland shifts to the side, if a depression or bulge is formed when the position changes, the nipple changes, discharge and other deviations appear - these are signals that a routine diagnostic examination of the mammary glands should be carried out.
  • Carefully consider the condition of the skin of the mammary glands, it should be free of any swelling, sores, visible protrusions, any rash and persistent redness, diaper rash and orange peel on the skin should be taken more seriously.
  • With hands smeared with cream or soaped with soap, while standing, it is necessary to examine each breast with the opposite hand. Probing should be carried out with the fingertips in circular, springy movements. At first, you should only slightly probe the surface under the skin, without pressing hard on the gland. After nothing is found in the upper layers, you can increase the pressure, gradually probing the tissue "in layers" to the very ribs. In this way, the entire mammary gland should be examined, especially pay attention to the armpit. Here are the lymph nodes, the enlargement and soreness of which are a symptom of unfavorable changes in the woman's body.
  • Next, you should conduct a thorough examination of the nipples. Compare the shape, color of the nipples, and look closely at the nipples for any spots, wetness, cracks or sores. You need to feel both the nipple itself and the tissues around it, and you also need to gently squeeze the nipple to make sure there is no discharge from it. If the discharge appears, then you should determine and write down what they are in consistency, color and in what quantity appeared when pressed.
  • It is also worth repeating the examination in the supine position, while trying not to miss a single part of the mammary gland.

Self-diagnosis is very important for the timely detection of various disorders in the female body, signs of breast cancer, and this is not difficult and not long. If, in comparison with the previous examination, a woman has found suspicious areas in the mammary glands, one should not postpone a visit to a specialist. A mammologist or gynecologist can differentiate the "find", determine, clarify the diagnosis, send the patient for additional examinations.

Breast cancer myths

Over a million cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed worldwide every year. This leads to the emergence of various panic moods, fear in women, as well as the development of rumors and myths in people far from medicine. Some of these beliefs lead women to fear safe diagnosis and refuse to be tested:

Myth - My relatives have never had breast cancer, so it does not threaten me.

Of course, if there is a family history of breast cancer, the risk of its occurrence in close relatives increases. However, today a lot of cases of the development of oncology are being recorded, when a woman in the family has not been diagnosed with any oncological disease.

Myth - I'm young, so I can't have cancer.

Even a very young girl has a risk of developing breast cancer; today, oncology can develop at any age.

Myth - Cancer can be prevented

Unfortunately, the causes of cancer are not fully known and the study of this insidious disease is ongoing to this day. To some extent, hormone-dependent cancers are now being tried to prevent the use of anti-estrogen drugs. However, there are other forms of cancer that do not depend on hormonal metabolism in the body. Only timely diagnosis can be the only way to prevent early death from cancer.

Myth - There is no point in having a mammogram, because breast cancer is transient and still leads to death.

It is imperative for women at risk to do an annual mammogram, there are no major changes in a year, but such a diagnosis will help to establish the process that has begun in time.

Myth - A large dose of radiation during mammography, especially since every year is very harmful and will inevitably lead to cancer.

The dose of radiation during this procedure is negligible and cannot have a serious negative effect on health, but it can save lives if a tumor is detected in time at an early stage, when treatment gives high chances of recovery.

Myth - If nothing hurts me, why be examined, I am healthy

The early stages of breast cancer are completely asymptomatic. If a woman already has benign neoplasms in the breast - lipomas, cysts, fibroadenoma, nodular form of mastopathy - they should be kept under the constant supervision of a mammologist. You should urgently consult a doctor if you find:

  • Brown, bloody, yellow discharge from the chest
  • Any lump - small, large, painful or painless, of any shape
  • If chest pain began to appear not a week before menstruation, but 2 weeks before the expected period
  • Severe pain in one or both breasts