Overview
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that develops rapidly, causing the affected breast to become red, swollen, and tender. This occurs when cancer cells block the lymphatic vessels in the skin covering the breast, leading to the characteristic appearance of the breast. Inflammatory breast cancer can easily be mistaken for a breast infection, but it has spread from its point of origin to nearby tissue and possibly nearby lymph nodes. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you notice any changes in your breast's skin, as a biopsy is needed to determine if symptoms are caused by inflammatory breast cancer. The exact cause of inflammatory breast cancer is not clear, but it begins with changes in the DNA of breast cells, usually in the milk ducts or glandular tissue. Risk factors include being a woman, being younger, being black, and being obese.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer include rapid changes in the appearance of one breast, thickness, heaviness, visible enlargement, discoloration, unusual warmth, dimpling or ridges, tenderness, pain, aching, enlarged lymph nodes, and flattening or turning inward of the nipple. These symptoms must have been present for less than six months for a diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer to be considered. If you notice any signs or symptoms that worry you, it is advisable to consult with your doctor.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing inflammatory breast cancer include being a woman, being younger, being black, and being obese. Inflammatory breast cancer is more frequently diagnosed in women and people in their 40s and 50s, with black women having a higher risk compared to white women. Obesity is also a risk factor for developing this type of breast cancer. However, it's important to remember that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop inflammatory breast cancer, as many women with this type of cancer have no known risk factors.
Development
Inflammatory breast cancer develops when breast cells undergo changes in their DNA, leading to abnormal cell growth. The altered cells usually originate from one of the ducts that carry breast milk to the nipple or the glandular tissue (lobules) where breast milk is produced. The cancerous cells then block the lymphatic vessels in the skin covering the breast, causing the characteristic red, swollen appearance of the breast. As a result, inflammatory breast cancer can appear similar to a breast infection, and it is important to seek medical attention promptly if you notice any skin changes on your breast.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer, which include rapid changes in the appearance of one breast, thickness or enlargement, discoloration, unusual warmth, dimpling or ridges, tenderness or pain, and enlarged lymph nodes. These symptoms must have been present for less than six months for a diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer. If you have been treated for a breast infection but your symptoms persist, contact your doctor. The only way to determine whether your symptoms are caused by inflammatory breast cancer is through a biopsy.
Diagnosis
To diagnose inflammatory breast cancer, your doctor will typically perform a physical exam to check for redness and other signs in your breast. They may also recommend imaging tests such as a breast X-ray (mammogram) and breast ultrasound. Additionally, a biopsy may be done to remove a small sample of suspicious breast tissue for laboratory testing. In some cases, additional tests like a CT scan, PET scan, or bone scan may be needed to determine the extent of cancer spread. Your doctor will use the information from these tests to determine the stage of your cancer, which will guide the selection of appropriate treatments.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of inflammatory breast cancer may include:
- Spread of cancer (metastasis): Inflammatory breast cancer can rapidly spread to nearby lymph nodes, chest wall, and other organs. The spread of cancer can lead to further complications and reduce the chances of successful treatment.
- Septic shock: Due to the blockage of lymphatic vessels, bacteria can build up in the affected breast, leading to a severe bacterial infection. This can result in septic shock, a life-threatening condition characterized by low blood pressure and insufficient blood flow to organs.
- Lymphedema: The blockage of lymphatic vessels can also cause lymphedema, the swelling of limbs or other body parts due to the accumulation of lymph fluid. Lymphedema can be difficult to manage and may cause long-term complications, such as infections and skin problems.
- Emotional and psychological impact: A diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer can be emotionally distressing and may lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. The physical changes and potential treatments can also affect self-esteem and body image.
- Treatment side effects: Treatment for inflammatory breast cancer may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and hormone therapy. These treatments can have various side effects, such as hair loss, fatigue, nausea, and pain.
- Reduced breast function: Radiation therapy, surgery, or both may result in reduced breast function, including loss of nipple sensation and difficulty with breastfeeding. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you notice any signs or symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer to receive early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Home Remedies
It is important to emphasize that inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer, and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Home remedies alone cannot replace medical care, and it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.
Treatment
Treatment for inflammatory breast cancer typically begins with chemotherapy. If the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body, treatment continues with surgery and radiation therapy. If the cancer has spread, your doctor may recommend additional drug treatments to slow the growth of the cancer. Chemotherapy is also used prior to surgery to shrink the cancer and increase the chance of surgery being successful. Targeted therapy may be recommended if the cancer cells test positive for specific abnormalities, such as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Additionally, coping and support are important aspects to consider during treatment.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for inflammatory breast cancer, you should:
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to breast changes.
- Note your family history of cancer, including any family members who have had cancer, their relationship to you, the type of cancer, age at diagnosis, and if they survived.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as questions about your diagnosis, treatment options, potential risks, and recommendations.
- Ask your healthcare provider if there are any specific preparations you need to make before the appointment, such as stopping any medications before a biopsy.
- Make a list of your current medications, vitamins, or supplements, and their doses.