What is breast cancer?

Breast disease refers to the presence of cancerous cells in the breast tissue, which have the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body (metastasis). Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, affecting both women and, in rare cases, men. Early detection and treatment are crucial in improving outcomes and survival rates for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

Types of breast cancer

There are several types of breast cancer, with the most common forms including:

• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common type of breast cancer. It begins in the milk ducts and then invades the surrounding breast tissue.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): This type of cancer starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to nearby tissues.
• Triple-negative breast cancer: A less common but aggressive type of breast cancer that lacks the receptors for oestrogen, progesterone, and HER2. It can be more challenging to treat.
• HER2-positive breast cancer: This form of cancer has higher levels of the HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth. It tends to be more aggressive but responds well to targeted therapies.
• Inflammatory breast cancer: A rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that causes the breast to become red, swollen, and warm.
• Paget’s disease of the nipple: A rare type of breast cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and areola.

Each type of breast cancer behaves differently, which affects the treatment options and prognosis.

Symptoms of breast cancer

The symptoms of breast cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Common signs to look out for include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Nipple discharge (which may be bloody)
• Nipple inversion or changes in the skin around the nipple
• Redness, dimpling, or puckering of the breast skin
• Persistent breast pain or discomfort

It’s important to remember that not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any unusual changes in your breasts should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Diagnosis

If breast cancer is suspected, your GP may refer you to a breast clinic for further tests. At the clinic, the following diagnostic tests may be carried out:

• Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast that can detect abnormal tissue, including lumps.
• Ultrasound: A scan that uses sound waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue.
• Biopsy: A small sample of breast tissue is removed and examined for cancer cells. This can be done using fine needle aspiration, a core needle biopsy, or a surgical biopsy.
• MRI: In some cases, an MRI scan may be used to provide more detailed images of the breast.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, further tests such as CT scans, PET scans, or bone scans may be carried out to determine whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body (staging).

Treatment options

The treatment for breast cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, tumour characteristics, and individual patient factors. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for breast cancer and may involve either:
  • Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumour and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue, preserving most of the breast.
  • Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast. Reconstruction may be discussed with your surgeon.
• Radiotherapy: Often used after surgery, radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast or surrounding area.
• Chemotherapy: This involves taking anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumour or after surgery (adjuvant) to prevent recurrence.
• Hormone therapy: If the cancer is hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy may be prescribed to block or lower the levels of oestrogen or progesterone in the body, which can help slow the growth of cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: For HER2-positive breast cancer, targeted drugs such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) may be used to block the HER2 protein and stop the growth of cancer cells.

Possible risks and side effects of treatment

While treatments for breast cancer are highly effective, they come with certain risks and side effects. Surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and scarring. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and a weakened immune system. Hormone therapy may result in hot flushes, fatigue, and bone thinning. Your healthcare team will discuss these risks with you and help manage any side effects during and after treatment.

Recovery and follow-up care

Recovery from breast cancer treatment depends on the type of surgery and any additional therapies. After surgery, you may experience pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with medication. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can cause fatigue, and it may take several weeks or months to regain your strength.

Regular follow-up appointments are essential after treatment for breast cancer. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor for any signs of recurrence and address any ongoing side effects or concerns. You may also be offered support from a breast care nurse or a counsellor to help you cope emotionally during your recovery.

Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?

At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we offer expert care for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Our experienced team of breast surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists work together to provide personalised treatment plans, using the latest diagnostic technology and treatment methods. With a patient-centred approach, we ensure you receive comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery.

Contact us

If you are concerned about breast cancer or have noticed any changes in your breast, contact Birmingham Breast Clinic to schedule a consultation.