What Are the Symptoms of Invasive Breast Cancer?
It is estimated that approximately one out of every eight women will develop some form of breast cancer. There are two main types of invasive breast cancer: invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC). However, many of the symptoms of the two types are similar.
Swelling
When all or a portion of the breast becomes swollen this often signals either ILC or IDC forms of breast cancer.
Pain
Both infiltrating lobular carcinoma and invasive ductal carcinoma can cause pain in the breasts and nipples. Pain often presents as dull and achy, causing a tender feeling in the affected breasts.
Discharge
Both IDC and ILC can cause either a clear or blood-tinged discharge from the nipple. The discharge may occur even if the nipple is not squeezed.
Masses or Lumps
Lumps may occur in the breast or under the arm. These lumps or masses may be small, soft, pea-shaped, or hard like a marble.
Visible Changes
With either ILC or IDC, there may also be visible changes to the skin and the nipple of the affected breast. This includes scaliness, thickening of the skin or nipple, redness and signs of general irritation.
Tags: breast cancer, ductal carcinoma, infiltrating lobular, infiltrating lobular carcinoma, Invasive Breast
