Types of breast cancer …. Is it just one?
Breast cancer is a condition that occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It can affect both women and men, although it is much more common in women. Understanding the different types of breast cancer is essential for awareness, early detection, and informed decision-making about treatment.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the types of breast cancer you should know about.
Main Categories of Breast Cancer
Breast cancers are broadly classified into two categories:
Non-invasive Breast Cancer: Cancer cells remain confined to the ducts or lobules and have not spread to surrounding tissues.
Invasive Breast Cancer: Cancer cells have spread beyond the ducts or lobules into nearby breast tissue and potentially to other parts of the body.
Non-Invasive Breast Cancer
1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
What It Is: DCIS is a non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the milk ducts but have not spread to nearby tissue.
Why It Matters: While DCIS is not life-threatening, it can increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer if left untreated.
Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but may be detected through routine mammograms.
2. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
What It Is: LCIS is not considered cancer but rather a marker indicating a higher risk of developing breast cancer in either breast.
Why It Matters: It’s often discovered incidentally during a biopsy for another breast issue.
Symptoms: LCIS usually does not cause noticeable symptoms or appear on a mammogram.
Invasive Breast Cancer
1. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
What It Is: IDC begins in the milk ducts and invades the surrounding breast tissue. It is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases.
Symptoms: A lump in the breast, changes in breast shape, or nipple discharge.
2. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
What It Is: ILC starts in the milk-producing lobules and spreads to surrounding tissue. It accounts for 10–15% of invasive breast cancers.
Symptoms: Subtle thickening in the breast, rather than a distinct lump.
Special Types of Breast Cancer
1. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)
What It Is: TNBC lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 protein, which are common targets for treatment.
Why It Matters: It is an aggressive form of cancer, more common in younger women and those of African or Hispanic descent.
Treatment: Chemotherapy is often the primary treatment since hormone therapies and HER2-targeted treatments are ineffective.
2. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
What It Is: This type involves an overexpression of the HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth.
Why It Matters: It tends to grow and spread more quickly but responds well to targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin).
Symptoms: Similar to IDC or ILC, with a focus on testing for HER2.
3. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
What It Is: A rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that blocks lymph vessels in the skin of the breast.
Symptoms: Red, swollen, and warm breast skin that may resemble an infection; thickened or pitted skin texture.
Why It Matters: IBC progresses rapidly and requires immediate medical attention.
4. Paget’s Disease of the Nipple
What It Is: A rare type of cancer starting in the ducts and spreading to the skin of the nipple and areola.
Symptoms: Scaly, red, or itchy skin on the nipple; possibly nipple discharge or inversion.
Why It Matters: It is often associated with DCIS or invasive breast cancer.
5. Metaplastic Breast Cancer
What It Is: A rare form of breast cancer involving mixed cell types.
Why It Matters: It is often more aggressive and less responsive to traditional therapies.
Treatment: Typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Rare Breast Cancers
1. Male Breast Cancer
What It Is: While rare, men can develop breast cancer, typically IDC.
Symptoms: A lump in the breast or under the nipple, often accompanied by nipple discharge.
2. Phyllodes Tumors
What It Is: These rare, fast-growing tumors develop in the connective tissue of the breast and can be benign or cancerous.
Symptoms: A palpable lump that grows rapidly.
What Are the Risk Factors?
While the exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, certain factors can increase the risk:
Gender (more common in women)
Age (risk increases with age)
Family history of breast cancer
Hormonal factors (e.g., prolonged estrogen exposure)
Lifestyle factors (e.g., alcohol use, obesity, lack of physical activity)
What Can You Do?
Routine Screening: Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams are crucial for early detection.
Breast Self-Exams: Familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel, and report any changes to a healthcare provider.
Healthy Lifestyle: Exercise, a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol intake can help lower your risk.
Takeaway
Breast cancer is not a single disease but a group of conditions that vary in severity, progression, and treatment. Knowing the types of breast cancer and understanding their characteristics can empower you to seek timely medical advice and make informed decisions.
Early detection is key to effective treatment, so stay proactive about your breast health. If you notice any changes or have concerns, consult a healthcare provider. Remember, knowledge is power, and awareness saves lives.
