Breast Cancer

12 min reading time Last Update Date: 04.07.2023
The treatment content titled Breast Cancer has been written by Doktorumsun and has been reviewed and approved by Op. Dr. Barış Veli AKIN (General Surgery).

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is abnormal cell growth and proliferation that begins in the breast tissue. This type of cancer usually starts in the mammary lobules (milk-producing glands) or mammary ducts (ducts that carry milk to the nipples).

Breast Cancer Causes?

The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but certain factors are known to increase the risk of cancer. Factors such as genetic factors, hormonal changes, age, obesity, hormonal treatments and radiation can affect the risk of breast cancer.

What are Breast Cancer Risk Factors? Who Is It Seen?

There are many risk factors for the development of breast cancer. These include age, gender, genetic factors, family history, hormonal factors, obesity, alcohol consumption, radiation exposure and hormonal drug use.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Breast Cancer?

Healthy lifestyle choices and regular screenings are important to prevent breast cancer. Under this heading, there are measures such as regular exercise, healthy eating, weight control, limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking.

What are the Types of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer can be divided into different types. In this section, different types such as ductal carcinoma in situ, lobular carcinoma in situ, invasive (spreading) carcinoma and inflammatory breast cancer will be explained, along with the differences between noninvasive and invasive cancer types.

What are the Differences between Noninvasive and Invasive Cancer Types?

Noninvasive breast cancer is a stage in which cells grow confined within the breast. Although this type of cancer is located within the breast tissue, it has not spread to the surrounding tissues. Noninvasive breast cancer is often called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). If this type of cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, it is treatable and has a low risk of spreading. Invasive (spreading) breast cancer is a stage in which cells go beyond the breast tissue and spread to the surrounding tissues. This type of cancer can spread beyond the breast tissue to lymph nodes, blood vessels, or other organs. Invasive breast cancer can be divided into several types, these include ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, and inflammatory breast cancer. Invasive breast cancer is a more serious condition and treatment may be more extensive.
Type of Cancer Description
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ Cancer cells that start in the breast ducts remain in a limited area without spreading into the breast tissue.
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ Cancer cells that start in the breast lobules remain in a limited area within the breast tissue and do not spread.

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a condition in which cancer cells that begin in the breast ducts grow in limited space. Such cancer cells do not spread into the breast tissue. If DCIS is diagnosed at an early stage, it can be treated and prevented from progressing.

Lobular Carcinoma In Situ

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition in which cells in the breast lobules grow abnormally. This type of cancer remains confined to the breast tissue and does not spread to the surrounding tissues. LCIS can increase the risk of breast cancer, so it is important to follow up and determine appropriate treatment approaches.

Invasive (Disseminated) Carcinoma

Invasive breast cancer refers to cancer cells that have spread beyond the breast tissue and spread to surrounding tissues. This type of cancer can spread to surrounding lymph nodes, blood vessels, or other organs. Invasive breast cancer can be divided into several subtypes, and the treatment approach is determined by the characteristics of the tumor and the extent of its spread.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer:

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but aggressive type. It manifests itself with symptoms such as redness, swelling and warmth in the skin as well as breast tissue. This type of cancer can spread rapidly through the lymphatic vessels and has a high risk of spreading to the lymph nodes.

What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer symptoms can vary from woman to woman. But some common symptoms are:

  • Mass or swelling above or below the breast
  • Redness or flaking of the breast skin
  • Change, retraction or reversal of the nipple
  • Nipple discharge, especially bloody or dark-colored discharge
  • Visible collapse or deformity above or below the breast
  • Orange peel appearance on the skin (peau d'orange)

Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Various methods are used to diagnose breast cancer. Among them:

  • Mammography: X-ray examination of breast tissue
  • Ultrasoundography: Imaging of breast tissue using sound waves
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Detailed imaging of breast tissue
  • Biopsy: Taking a sample of suspicious tissue or mass and sending it for laboratory analysis
Diagnostic Method Intended Use Sensitivity Recommended Frequency
Breast Examination Detection of abnormalities in breast tissue Intermediate Monthly by herself, once a year under a doctor's control
Mammography Early detection and screening of breast cancer High level Annual from age 40, biennially after age 50
Ultrasound Completing mammography results and providing additional information Intermediate As needed
Biopsy Confirmation of suspicious lesions and examination of cancer cells High level Should be done when in doubt

Early Diagnosis Methods in Breast Cancer

Detecting breast cancer early increases the chances of cure and cure rate. The following methods can be used for early diagnosis:

Examination in Front of the Mirror

Examine yourself in front of the mirror and try to detect any visual changes or abnormalities. Look out for signs such as breast shape, skin colour, nipple recession or deformity.

Examination While Showering

Feel the breast tissue by gently massaging it with your soapy hands. Check for any lumps, swelling, or abnormal stiffness. Also watch for any discharge from the nipples.

Examination while lying on back

Lie on your back, place your hands under your head and feel your breasts. Gently scan the breast tissue in circular motions, applying light pressure. Detect any mass, swelling, stiffness or tenderness.

Mammography

Mammography is an imaging method used to detect breast cancer early. It provides X-ray examination of the breast tissue. Regular mammography screenings are recommended, especially for women aged 40 and over.

Doctor Examination

Doctoral examination is important in people with signs or suspicious findings of breast cancer. The doctor physically examines the breast tissue to try to detect any abnormalities. If necessary, additional tests or biopsy can be performed.

How Often Should Breast Scanning Be Done?

Breast screening is important for early detection of breast cancer. In general, it is recommended that women over the age of 40 have a mammogram once a year. However, the frequency of screening may vary in line with risk factors, family history, or your doctor's recommendations. More frequent screenings may be required for people in the risk group.

Breast Cancer Stages

Breast cancer stages are used to determine the extent of cancer's spread and treatment options. Staging is based on tumor size, spread to lymph nodes, and metastasis to distant organs. Stages from stage 0 to stage IV are used in the staging process.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis of breast cancer is made based on the results of the screening tests and, if necessary, the biopsy result. Treatment methods are determined according to the stage and type of the tumor and the general health status of the patient. Surgical methods (lumpectomy, mastectomy), drug treatments (chemotherapy, hormone therapy), radiotherapy and targeted therapies (immunotherapy) may be among the treatment options. Treatment usually includes one or a combination of methods.

Surgical Methods

Surgical treatment aims to remove the cancerous tumor. Lumpectomy is a method in which the tumor is only partially removed. Mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which the breast tissue is completely removed. Surgery can often include examination of the lymph nodes as well.

Drug Treatments

Drug therapy involves the use of drugs that target cancer cells. Chemotherapy is done with drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing. Hormonotherapy is used to control hormone levels in patients with hormone receptor positive breast cancer. Targeted therapies, on the other hand, are treatment methods that use drugs aimed at specific targets.

What can be done to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer?

You can follow the steps below to reduce the risk of breast cancer:

  • Embrace a healthy lifestyle: eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and maintain your ideal weight.
  • Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of breast cancer, so be careful to consume in limited quantities.
  • Don't smoke: Smoking increases the risk of breast cancer, so quit or stay away from it.
  • Assess hormone treatments: Be aware that hormonal treatments such as hormone replacement therapy or the birth control pill can increase the risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about this.
  • Breastfeeding: Breastfeed your baby for as long as possible. Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
  • Genetic counseling: If you have a family history of breast cancer, get genetic counseling to assess your risk factors.

Information About Life After Breast Cancer

It is important to maintain a healthy life after breast cancer treatment. You can prevent cancer recurrence with routine follow-up examinations, regular follow-up screenings and lifestyle changes. Below is some important information about life after breast cancer:

  • Treatment follow-up: Perform regular examinations and scans by following your doctor's recommended follow-up schedule. In this way, early detection of cancer and taking necessary precautions can be ensured.
  • Healthy diet: Follow a balanced and healthy diet. Consume antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, choose foods with fiber, and choose healthy fats.
  • Exercise: Exercising regularly both supports your general health and reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. Plan your physical activities according to your doctor's recommendations.
  • Stress management: Stress can affect the immune system and cause adverse health effects. Provide relief using stress management techniques and seek professional help for support.
  • Join support groups: Join support groups where you can connect with others living with breast cancer. These groups allow you to share your experiences and find morale and support.
  • Smoking and alcohol: Do not smoke and limit or quit alcohol consumption if possible. These habits can increase the risk of breast cancer and negatively affect the treatment process.
  • Psychological support: Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. It may be helpful to see a therapist or counselor for psychological support.

It is important to maintain a healthy life and support your well-being after breast cancer by taking these precautions. It is also important to follow your doctor's recommendations and not to miss regular checkups.

Which Department of the Hospital should make an appointment for Breast - Breast Cancer Treatment?

A patient with suspected breast - breast cancer should usually make an appointment for an examination from the Oncology or Breast Diseases department. These departments include doctors who specialize in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

  • Oncology: Oncologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of cancer. Patients with suspected breast or breast cancer can apply to oncologists to evaluate their condition, have the necessary tests done, and create an appropriate treatment plan. Oncologists may use a variety of methods in the treatment of cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies.
  • Breast Diseases: Doctors dealing with breast diseases also play an important role in the treatment of breast - breast cancer. The breast disease specialist evaluates the tumor or other abnormal findings by performing a breast examination, recommends tests such as biopsy when deemed necessary, and offers appropriate treatment options.

Breast - A patient with suspected breast cancer should make an appointment with an oncologist or breast disease specialist who can evaluate his condition and symptoms. The specialist doctor will perform a detailed examination, request the necessary examinations and determine the appropriate cancer treatment plan.

Which department should a patient who does not know that he/she has breast or breast cancer make an appointment for the first examination?

A patient who is not suspected of breast or breast cancer can generally make an appointment for an examination at the Obstetrics and Gynecology department. This section includes doctors who specialize in women's health issues.

  • Gynecology and Obstetrics: This section deals with women's reproductive health, breast health and gynecological problems. A patient who suspects that he does not have breast or breast cancer can consult a gynecologist and have a breast examination and evaluation. The specialist doctor can evaluate whether there are any abnormalities or signs of cancer in the breast tissue and can refer you for further examinations if necessary.

A patient who is not suspected of breast cancer can share his condition and concerns with his obstetrician and gynecologist. The specialist doctor will perform a breast examination to assess if any abnormalities are detected. If necessary, further examinations or referral to another specialist can be made.

References

  • American Cancer Society. (2021). Breast Cancer Overview. Retrieved from - https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer.html
  • National Breast Cancer Foundation. (2021). Breast Cancer. Retrieved from - https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer
  • Mayo Clinic. (2021). Breast cancer. Retrieved from - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer
  • Breastcancer.org. (2021). Breast Cancer Treatment by Stage. Retrieved from - https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/diagnosis/staging
  • World Health Organization. (2021). Breast cancer. Retrieved from - https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer
Note: The page content is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Doctors Relevant for Breast Cancer

Op. Dr. Mehmet Durmuş KURT
Pendik/İstanbul
Doç. Dr. Metehan GÜMÜŞ
Esenyurt/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Turgay YILDIZ
Gaziosmanpaşa/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Barış Veli AKIN
Esenyurt/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Abdurrahman AKAY
Melikgazi/Kayseri
Doç. Dr. Ayşe ALTINOK
Bahçelievler/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Vehibe IŞIK
Küçükçekmece/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Hakan SEVEN
Gaziosmanpaşa/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Hüsamettin BAYRAKTAR
Çerkezköy/Tekirdağ
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi İlker PALA
Pendik/İstanbul
Prof. Dr. Ali İlker FİLİZ
Üsküdar/İstanbul
Op. Dr. Cenan OKTAY
Sultangazi/İstanbul