Overview
Invasive lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that originates in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. It is characterized by cancer cells breaking out of the lobule where they began and having the potential to spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body. Invasive lobular carcinoma makes up a small portion of all breast cancers, with the most common type being invasive ductal carcinoma. At early stages, it may not cause any signs or symptoms, but as it grows, it can result in thickening, fullness, or swelling in part of the breast, changes in skin texture or appearance, and a newly inverted nipple. Risk factors for invasive lobular carcinoma include being female, older age, and having lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). The exact cause of invasive lobular carcinoma is not clear, but it begins with DNA mutations in cells that form the enamel lining on teeth.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of invasive lobular carcinoma may include an area of thickening in part of the breast, a new area of fullness or swelling in the breast, a change in the texture or appearance of the skin over the breast, such as dimpling or thickening, and a newly inverted nipple. These symptoms may not appear until later stages of the disease. It is also important to note that lobular carcinoma cells tend to invade breast tissue in a distinct way, more like a thickening and fullness, rather than forming a firm nodule.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing invasive lobular carcinoma include being female, older age, and having lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). Other factors that may increase the risk include a personal history of breast conditions such as atypical hyperplasia, a personal history of breast cancer, and a family history of breast cancer.
Development
Invasive lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. The cancer cells have mutations in their DNA that lead to uncontrolled growth and division. These cells can break out of the lobule where they originated and have the potential to spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body. The most common type of breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma, which begins in the breast ducts.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect invasive lobular carcinoma, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms may include a new area of fullness or swelling in the breast, a change in the texture or appearance of the skin over the breast, and a newly inverted nipple. These symptoms may not be accompanied by a firm or distinct breast lump, as invasive lobular carcinoma tends to spread in a distinct way. If you notice any concerning changes in your breast, make an appointment with your doctor for an examination. They will determine whether you need a diagnostic breast X-ray (mammogram) or a breast ultrasound to further evaluate your condition. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment of invasive lobular carcinoma.
Diagnosis
To diagnose invasive lobular carcinoma, various tests and procedures are used. Some of the common diagnostic tests include mammogram, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, invasive lobular carcinoma is less likely to be detected on a mammogram than other types of breast cancer. MRI and ultrasound may be more helpful in detecting the cancer when other tests are inconclusive. A biopsy procedure, either fine-needle aspiration or a core needle biopsy, is often performed to collect a sample of suspicious breast tissue for laboratory testing to determine if cancer cells are present.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Possible complications of invasive lobular carcinoma include the spread of cancer to other tissues and organs, which can make treatment and recovery more difficult. Other complications may arise if the cancer grows and presses on nearby structures, such as the nerves or blood vessels, causing pain or functional issues.
Home Remedies
on home remedies for invasive lobular carcinoma. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis, treatment, and care.
Treatment
The treatment for invasive lobular carcinoma typically consists of surgery and additional therapy, which may include chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy. The surgery may involve removing the cancer and a small portion of healthy tissue, known as a lumpectomy or wide local excision. In some cases, the surgeon may need to remove all of the breast tissue if the tissue around the tumor shows signs of cancer cells. Additional therapy may be recommended based on the cancer's aggressiveness, stage, and your overall health.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for invasive lobular carcinoma, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: Ask your doctor if there are any dietary or other restrictions you should follow before your appointment.
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing: Note down any symptoms you are experiencing, even if they seem unrelated to invasive lobular carcinoma.
- Write down key personal information: Include major stresses or recent life changes that could be relevant to your health.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking: This will help your doctor understand your overall health and potential interactions with treatments for invasive lobular carcinoma.
- Bring your medical records: Ensure you have all your previous scans, X-rays, and other relevant medical records available for your doctor to review.
- Consider taking a family member or friend: Having someone with you can help you remember important information discussed during the appointment.
- Prioritize your questions: Create a list of questions to ask your doctor in order of priority, in case time runs out during the appointment. Some questions to consider include:
- Is it invasive lobular carcinoma?
- Where is the tumor located?
- What tests are needed for a diagnosis?
- What are the treatment options?
- What are the potential side effects of each treatment?
- Should I seek a second opinion? Can you recommend any specialists? Remember to be proactive in your preparation and communication with your healthcare team to ensure you receive the best care for your invasive lobular carcinoma.