Hello, ladies! Curious about another type of breast cancer? Let's delve into the details of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), the second most common breast cancer. What are the symptoms, causes, and treatment options? Find out more in this Fitie article!
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): A Closer Look
ILC begins in the mammary glands and spreads to surrounding breast tissue. It's the second most common breast cancer, often affecting women aged 55 and over. Unlike other types, ILC grows in a single-cell pattern, making it harder to detect through self-exams or lumps.
Invasive lobular carcinoma is the second most common type of breast cancer
Symptoms to Be Aware Of:
- Hard or thickened areas in the breast or armpit
- Swelling of all or part of the breast
- Inward-pointing nipples
- Dents, wrinkles, or skin dimpling
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Reddish, warm, scaly skin
- Nipple discharge (not breast milk)
- Lumps near the armpit
- Skin irritation and pain
Causes of ILC:
ILC results from DNA mutations in breast cells, though the exact cause is unknown. Risk factors include age, gender, hormone therapy post-menopause, and certain genetic factors.
Diagnosis:
Mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies help diagnose ILC. Staging depends on the cancer's size, location, and spread, ranging from stage 1 to stage 4.
Treatment:
Treatment involves local (targeting the tumor) and systemic (affecting the entire body) approaches. Local treatments include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy) and radiation therapy. Systemic treatments encompass chemotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-hormone therapy, and immunotherapy. Recovery time varies based on the chosen treatment.
Side Effects:
- Surgery may cause infections, blood clots, and anesthesia allergies.
- Radiation therapy can lead to nausea, fatigue, and skin irritation.
- Chemotherapy often results in fatigue, hair loss, skin changes, fever, and more.
- Hormone therapy may cause hot flashes, joint pain, mood changes, and more.
Prevention and Early Detection:
Regular self-exams using breast self-examination (BSE) are crucial. Prevention involves a healthy lifestyle. Fitie's online consultation service is available if you have questions or concerns.
Treatment for breast cancer can be surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-hormone therapy, and immunotherapy
Remember, knowledge empowers! Stay informed and take charge of your health.