As technology advances, breast cancer screenings are catching breast cancer earlier and earlier. We are more vigilant about our health, and have access to technology that allows us to live much longer lives. With that, however, comes the fact that with longer lives comes a longer window within which to develop a disease like breast cancer. Despite our increased access to information and knowledge about our own health, not everyone understands the different types of breast cancer. With the help of the best breast cancer doctor in Austin, Dr. Miltenburg, we can begin to explore the ways in which breast cancer spread.
Breast cancer can begin in many different areas of the breast: the ducts, the lobules, and in some cases the tissues in-between. Just as there are many different areas where the cancer can begin, there are many different types of breast cancer, too. Understanding the differences between the types of cancer and what their risks and signs are is important for all people concerned about their breast health. Below, we will explain the different types of breast cancer so you can increase your knowledge of this disease.
According to BreastCancer.org, these are the different types of breast cancer. Below, we will explain some of the specific characteristics of each type of breast cancer.
● Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
DCIS is the most commonly seen form of non-invasive breast cancer and it originates in the milk ducts, carcinoma referring to any type of cancer that starts in skin or other tissues that surround or line your internal organs. DCIS is considered non-invasive because it has not yet spread to any surrounding tissues and is isolated to the ducts.
● Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
IDC is the most common form of breast cancer, making up almost 80% of all cases. It is considered invasive because it has spread to surrounding breast tissues, unlike DCIS which remains isolated to the ducts. In the United States, more than 180,000 women are diagnosed with IDC every year.
● Tubular Carcinoma of the Breast
This is a type of IDC and is usually very small and shaped like a tube. This type of tumor is usually small and grows slowly. Although these tubes are very small, with current mammography technology, they are more frequently diagnosed prior to you or your doctor feeling a lump.
● Medullary Carcinoma of the Breast
This is another type of IDC and is characterized by a small, soft, fleshy tumor and usually afflicts women in their 40s and 50s. They do not grow quickly or spread far, and are considered one of the easier types of breast cancer to treat.
● Mucinous Carcinoma of the Breast
Another form of IDC, a mucinous carcinoma is quite rare. The tumors of a mucinous carcinoma are made up of abnormal cells. This type of cancer is less aggressive than others, responds well to treatment and usually impacts women who are post-menopausal or in their 60s and 70s.
● Papillary Carcinoma of the Breast
Another IDC form, papillary carcinomas are extremely rare, making up less than 2% of diagnosed cases, and are usually found in women who are postmenopausal.
● Cribriform Carcinoma of the Breast
Another form of IDC, cribriform carcinomas invade breast tissue in formations that are “nestlike” between lobules and ducts.
● Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
ILC is the second most commonly diagnosed form of breast cancer, making up about 10% of all invasive breast cancers. This type of cancer begins in the milk-producing lobules and has spread to surrounding tissue. ILC is known to spread to other parts of the body and makes up about two thirds of invasive breast cancer diagnoses of women aged 55 and older.
● Inflammatory Breast Cancer
IBC is an aggressive and unusual form of breast cancer, making up about 1% of all diagnosed cases and is characterized by a distinct lump. This type of cancer can grow very quickly, and it’s important that someone experiencing symptoms of IBC seek treatment immediately.
● Male Breast Cancer
Less than 1% of breast cancer cases are found in men. Men, too, have breast tissue, and men who take certain medications or have abnormal hormone levels are known to be diagnosed with the illness, despite how unlikely it is.
● Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast
Phyllodes tumors are extremely rare, making up less than 1% of known cases. These tumors grow in a leaf like pattern and grow very quickly, rarely spreading beyond breast tissue. Some of these tumors are benign and some are malignant.
Breast Cancer Doctor in Austin
At the Breast Institute of Austin, we aim to help all patients who have suffered breast cancer and educate those who aren’t knowledgeable about the risks and symptoms of this illness. Please contact the top breast cancer doctor in Austin to learn more about what we can do for you!