Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, often forming a tumor that can be felt as a lump. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide, but it can also affect men, albeit rarely. Early detection and advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for many patients.
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Types of Breast Cancer
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) :
– Non-invasive cancer confined to the ducts of the breast.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) :
– The most common type, where cancer has spread beyond the ducts into surrounding tissue.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) :
– Begins in the lobules and may spread to other parts of the breast.
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer :
– A challenging form of breast cancer that lacks the three common receptors (estrogen, progesterone, and HER2).
- HER2-Positive Breast Cancer :
– Characterized by the presence of HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth.
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Risk Factors
– Genetic : BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
– Lifestyle : Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
– Hormonal : Early menstruation, late menopause, and use of hormone replacement therapy.
– Age : Risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
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Symptoms
– A lump in the breast or armpit.
– Changes in breast shape or size.
– Nipple discharge or inversion.
– Skin dimpling or redness.
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Diagnosis
– Imaging : Mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRI.
– Biopsy : Tissue sampling to confirm cancer presence and type.
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Treatment
- Surgery :
– Lumpectomy or mastectomy to remove the tumor.
- Radiation Therapy :
– Targets remaining cancer cells post-surgery.
- Chemotherapy :
– Systemic treatment to destroy cancer cells.
- Hormonal Therapy :
– For hormone-receptor-positive cancers.
- Targeted Therapy :
– Treats specific molecular characteristics like HER2.
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Prevention and Awareness
– Regular screenings and self-examinations.
– Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
– Genetic testing for individuals with a family history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer treatment is advancing rapidly, with innovations like immunotherapy and AI-driven diagnostics improving outcomes. Early detection remains the key to survival, so education and awareness are vital.
Oncoplastic surgery
Oncoplastic breast surgery is an advanced surgical approach that combines cancer removal with cosmetic techniques to preserve or restore the natural appearance of the breast. It is often performed during or after a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or mastectomy to address both the oncological and aesthetic needs of the patient.
Key Features of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
- Cancer Removal :
– The primary goal is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue to ensure complete cancer excision.
– This may involve a lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
- Cosmetic Reconstruction :
– Techniques such as tissue rearrangement, breast reduction, or lifts are used to reshape the breast.
– In cases where one breast is affected, the other breast may also be adjusted for symmetry.
- Benefits :
– Enhances the cosmetic outcome, reducing visible deformities or asymmetry.
– Allows for more extensive tissue removal if needed, without compromising the breast’s appearance.
– Improves the psychological and emotional well-being of patients by addressing aesthetic concerns.
- Techniques :
– Local Flap Reconstruction : Uses remaining breast tissue to fill in defects after tumor removal.
– Bilateral Breast Reduction or Lift : Adjusts both breasts for symmetry.
– Skin-Sparing Mastectomy : Preserves the breast skin for reconstruction after cancer removal.
Oncoplastic surgery is tailored to each patient’s needs, considering factors like tumor size, breast shape, and personal preferences. It represents a significant advancement in breast cancer treatment, offering both effective cancer management and improved quality of life.
