Breast cancer is a deeply personal journey that affects not just those diagnosed but their families and loved ones too. While it can be a daunting subject, understanding the different types of breast cancer can help in navigating this journey with knowledge and compassion. In this blog, we’ll explore the various types of breast cancer, explained in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
1. Angiosarcoma
Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that begins in the cells that line the blood vessels or lymph vessels. It's more common in people who have undergone radiation therapy in the past. Unlike other types of breast cancer, Angiosarcoma may not always form a noticeable lump. Instead, it can appear as a bruise-like area on the skin, which gradually becomes larger and changes colour. Given its rarity, it's crucial to seek medical advice immediately if you notice any unusual changes in your breast skin, especially if you've had previous radiation treatments.
2. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
Ductal carcinoma in situ, often abbreviated as DCIS, is a non-invasive type of breast cancer. It means that the cancer cells are confined to the milk ducts and have not spread into the surrounding breast tissue. DCIS is often discovered during a routine mammogram, even before any symptoms appear.
The good news is that DCIS is highly treatable, and with early intervention, the chances of preventing it from becoming invasive are excellent. Treatment options typically include surgery and sometimes radiation therapy.
3. Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but very aggressive form of breast cancer. Unlike most other breast cancers, it may not cause a lump. Instead, the breast may become red, swollen, and warm, often resembling an infection. This type of breast cancer progresses rapidly, so if you notice these symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor immediately. Inflammatory breast cancer requires aggressive treatment, often beginning with chemotherapy to shrink the tumour, followed by surgery and radiation.
4. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common type of breast cancer.
It begins in the milk-producing glands, known as lobules, and can spread to nearby tissues. ILC is sometimes more challenging to detect on a mammogram compared to other breast cancers, as it often doesn’t form a lump. Instead, it may cause a thickening or fullness in one part of the breast. Early detection is key, and treatment usually involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
5. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
Lobular carcinoma in situ, or LCIS, is not a true cancer but a condition that indicates an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future. It occurs when abnormal cells are found in the lobules of the breast. LCIS doesn’t typically show up on a mammogram and is often discovered accidentally during a biopsy for another breast issue.
While LCIS itself does not require treatment, it’s a sign that you need to be more vigilant with regular breast exams and mammograms. Some may choose preventive measures like medication or even surgery to reduce the risk.
6. Male Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is often thought of as a women’s disease, but men can get it too. Although it’s much less common, male breast cancer is a reality for many. Most male breast cancers are similar to the types found in women, such as invasive ductal carcinoma. Symptoms can include a lump in the breast, changes to the nipple or skin, and sometimes discharge. Because men are less likely to consider breast cancer as a possibility, it’s often diagnosed at a later stage. Awareness and early detection are crucial for successful treatment.
7. Paget's Disease of the Breast
Paget's disease of the breast is a rare type of cancer that starts in the nipple and extends to the areola (the darker area of skin around the nipple). The skin of the nipple may become red, itchy, and scaly, often mistaken for eczema or dermatitis. While these symptoms might seem minor, they could be an early sign of an underlying breast cancer, either DCIS or invasive breast cancer. If you notice persistent changes in your nipple or areola, it’s important to seek medical advice. Treatment usually involves surgery, sometimes combined with radiation or other therapies.
Dr. Pragati Singhal
