Breast cancer is sometimes caused by mutation (defective) genetic inheritance. Genes that are inherited relay information from both parents. Inherited breast cancer accounts for approximately 5 to 10% of all cancers. Certain types of modified genes are responsible for breast cancer and are more common in certain ethnic groups.
Women who have altered genes that cause breast cancer and who previously had cancer in one breast have an increased risk of developing cancer and other breast. Also, men who have modified genes responsible for breast cancer have an increased risk of developing this disease. To detect gene defects there is a possibility of performing genetic tests. These genetic tests are recommended sometimes to other family members who have an increased risk of developing cancer.
Investigations - Investigations which examine the breasts are designed to detect (find) and diagnose breast cancer. The following tests and procedures may be used for this purpose: - Mammogram: Radiological exploration of the breast - Biopsy: is a method by which cells or tissue taken from the tumor for examination under a microscope by the pathologist, in order to detect changes due to cancer, in case of revealing unusual formations in the breast.
There are four types of biopsies: - Excisional biopsy: this method is used on entirely unusual formation or tissue - Incisional biopsy: this method removes only part of the formation or unusual tissue - Intralesional biopsy: this method removes some of the unusual formation or tissue using a needle biopsy - With a needle biopsy or by aspiration biopsy: this method removes either part of the formation or unusual tissue or fluid using a thin needle biopsy.
Breast cancer radiation treatment - it is a therapeutic option for cancer which uses high intensity X radiation or other radiation to kill cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to generate X-rays to be directed to the area where the tumor is located. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance encapsulated in needles, caps, wires, or catheters that are placed inside or near the cancer.
The type of radiation therapy used depends on the type and stage of cancer to be treated.Chemotherapy - Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop cancer cell growth, both through their destruction and by stopping the division (multiplication). Mode of administration and type of chemotherapy used depends on the type and stage of tumor to be treated.