Inflammatory breast cancer cannot usually be detected by means of an ultrasound or mammogram, although there are definitive signs that--if presented--need to be examined by a qualified health professional immediately. This aggressive, accelerated type of breast cancer that has already advanced from its original starting point makes the breast swollen and tender.
Misdiagnosis
Often inflammatory breast cancer is misdiagnosed as a simple breast infection and the victim is given antibiotics and sent home, when in fact treatment for inflammatory cancer should begin. Misdiagnosis robs unsuspecting women of precious time and delays their treatment by weeks. A second opinion is advised if you think you have been misdiagnosed.
Age Range
Typically, inflammatory breast cancer affects women over 50, although women as young as 30 have also been diagnosed. Rare but deadly, this cancer warrants immediate action by the victim to benefit from early intervention and treatment.
Signs
One breast rapidly changes over a relatively short period of time--days or weeks. The affected breast is bright red and swollen, and tender and warm to the touch. The breast may take on a dark red to purplish, bruised appearance that may fade but doesn't disappear. Signs of breast cancer may include dimpling of the breast or underarm. The dimpling looks similar to the skin of an orange peel; thus, it is called "peau d'orange," which in French means orange peel. Thickening of the breast skin or heaviness may be apparent, including an obvious increase in size. This size increase is due to fluids "water-logging" the lymph nodes and breast tissue that now has nowhere to go. Enlarged lymph nodes may be present in the neck above the collarbone and/or under the arms. Swollen or crusty skin may affect the nipple and the breast. The nipple may have discharge and develop a flattened appearance or an inverted look. Any or all of these signs should be evaluated by a qualified health professional to ensure prompt treatment and a better chance of survival.
Effects
Effects of inflammatory breast cancer may end with a mastectomy of the affected breast or breasts. Death may occur if inflammatory breast cancer spreads to other organs and they fail. Treatments for inflammatory breast cancer include medications, surgery and radiation therapy. Lymph nodes are removed from under the arm and tested to see if the cancer has spread to this area.
Expert Insight
According to the Mayo Clinic, "Inflammatory breast cancer accounts for between 1 and 6 percent of all breast cancer cases in the United States. Survival rates are lower than those observed in other locally advanced breast cancers." See "Additional Resources," below, for more information from the Mayo Clinic on inflammatory breast cancer.
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