07 March 2024

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in breast tissue. It occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably, overtaking the healthy breast tissue and its surrounding areas.

Types of Breast Cancer

1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
   Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) grows in the milk ducts but does not spread to surrounding tissues. DCIS is an early-stage cancer that is easily treatable. However, if left untreated, DCIS can spread to nearby tissues.

2. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
   Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a type of cancer that grows in the milk-producing glands. Similar to ductal carcinoma in situ, this type of cancer does not spread to surrounding tissues. However, LCIS in one breast can increase the risk of cancer forming in both breasts.

3. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
   Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is a type of breast cancer that grows in the ducts and can spread to surrounding tissues, even to other parts of the body. IDC accounts for 70–80% of breast cancer cases.

4. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
   Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a cancer that initially grows in the milk-producing glands but later spreads to surrounding tissues. This type of cancer can also spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. ILC accounts for 10% of breast cancer cases.

In addition to the types of breast cancer mentioned above, there are also some rare forms of breast cancer, including:

1. Angiosarcoma, which develops in the blood vessels and lymphatic channels in the breast.

2. Paget's Disease, a cancer that originates in the nipple and spreads to the surrounding dark area (areola).

3. Phyllodes Tumor, which grows in the connective tissue of the breast.

4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), a fast-developing type of cancer that blocks the lymphatic vessels, causing the breast to become inflamed, red, and swollen, resembling an infection.

5. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, a difficult-to-treat cancer type that lacks estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER-2 protein receptor markers during tissue examination.

Causes and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages due to its small size. A lump may only be noticeable when it grows larger. However, not all breast lumps indicate cancer. Therefore, early examinations are crucial to determine whether a lump is cancerous or not.

The exact cause of cancer cells developing in the breast is still unknown. However, several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing breast cancer, including being overweight, having an early onset of menstruation, and smoking habits.

Treatment and Prevention of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can be treated in several ways, depending on the patient’s condition and the type of cancer. These treatments include:

• Radiation therapy

• Hormone therapy

• Chemotherapy

• Surgery (mastectomy)

Breast cancer can be prevented by performing self-examinations or medical check-ups. Routine check-ups are essential for individuals at risk of developing breast cancer.

Screening mammography is also recommended for early detection of breast cancer. This screening is conducted every 1–2 years for women starting at age 40. For individuals with risk factors, screening may begin before age 40.

In addition to regular check-ups, adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining an ideal weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are recommended. Furthermore, consult a doctor before undergoing postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Reviewed by : dr. Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source : Alodokter Health Article

Picture : freepik.com