What is cancer? - When cells divide and new cells are not necessary, too much tissue is formed. This mass of extra tissue, which is called a tumor, can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors: They are not cancerous. Usually can be removed. In most cases do not recur. Do not spread to other parts of the body and the cells do not invade other tissues.
Malignancies: Are cancerous. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and surrounding organs. Metastasize - cancer cells can spread from a malignant tumor and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form secondary tumors in other parts of the body.
What are the different types of breast cancer? There are several types of breast cancer, including: The most common type begins in the lining of the ducts and is called ductal carcinoma. Another common type, called lobular carcinoma, occurs in the lobules (glands that produce milk).
Paget's disease is a rare form of breast cancer that begins in the glands in the skin or under the skin. Paget's disease is characterized by the presence of patches on the skin swollen red and usually originates from ductal breast cancer. The patches can occur in sweat glands in the groin or near the anus. Since Paget's disease often originates from breast duct cancer, eczema-like cancer usually appears around the nipple.
When breast cancer metastasizes, or spreads outside the breast, cancer cells are often found in the lymph nodes under the arm. If the cancer has reached these nodes, it may mean that cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Cancer that spreads is the same disease and has the same name as the original cancer, or primary. When breast cancer spreads, it is called metastatic breast cancer, though the secondary tumor is in another organ. This also may be called "distant" disease.
What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer? Below are the most common symptoms of breast cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. In his early breast cancer is usually painless and may present who have no symptoms. Some breast cancers are never cause symptoms or other indicators of a problem.
However, as the cancer grows, it may cause changes that women and men should watch for, including: A lump or thickening (a mass, swelling, skin irritation, or distortion) in or near the breast or armpit area. A change in the size or shape of the breast.
A change in color or how they feel the skin of the breast, areola or nipple (dimpled, puckered or scaly). Nipple discharge, erosion, inversion, or tenderness. A woman (or man) should consult with your doctor if you notice any of these changes. If you are interested in a breast cancer association, you can find out more on nationalbreastcancer.org or nbcf.org.au. A breast cancer association will provide information, facts, statistics, symptoms and treatments.