Breast Tumour Identification
Explore all about breast tumours. From all different types based on severity to associated risk factors, symptoms, advanced detection methods, treatment options, and more.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Breast tumours are among the most common health concerns affecting women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB). This condition occurs when abnormal cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably. This growth forms abnormal masses that may be benign or cancerous.
While breast cancer primarily affects women aged 50 and older, it can also occur in younger individuals. It can also occur in men and those assigned male at birth (AMAB).
Early identification plays a critical role in effective treatment and improving outcomes. This article will provide an in-depth exploration of breast tumours. It will cover their types, risk factors, symptoms, and available treatment options for a better understanding.
Types of Breast Tumours
Depending on the growth of the lumps there are two types of breast tumours:
1. Benign breast tumours
Breasts are made up of glands, tissue, and fat, which can sometimes develop lumps, cysts, or tumours. This is referred to as benign breast disease. These conditions are not cancerous or life-threatening. However, there is a possibility that they may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer later on. Benign breast disorders include any changes in the breast tissue that are non-cancerous.
Common types of benign breast conditions include: Breast cysts, Fibroadenomas, Fibrocystic breast changes, Mammary duct ectasia, Intraductal papillomas.
2. Malignant Breast Tumours
Malignant breast tumours are cancerous growths that form in or around breast tissue, often in the milk ducts or glands. They develop when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. This leads to the formation of lumps or calcium deposits. While most breast lumps are benign, some can be premalignant or malignant. Identifying these tumours early is crucial for effective treatment.
Risk Factors for Breast Tumours
Several factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. These include:
Sex: Being a woman, or a person assigned female at birth (AFAB), is one of the biggest risk factors for breast cancer.
Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Most invasive breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 55 or older.
Family History: Having close relatives, such as a mother, sister, or daughter, with breast cancer raises the risk significantly.
Genetics: Hereditary factors play a role in 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases. These are often linked to abnormal genes passed down from parents.
Personal History of Breast Cancer: A previous breast cancer diagnosis increases the likelihood of developing a new cancer in the other breast or another part of the same breast.
Radiation Exposure: Receiving radiation treatment to the chest or face before age 30 increases the risk of breast cancer later in life.
Certain Breast Conditions: Some benign breast conditions can elevate the risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
Symptoms and Signs of Breast Tumours
Breast cancer symptoms can vary. Some may be obvious, while others might appear as subtle changes. Common symptoms include:
A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast.
A lump or mass, sometimes as small as a pea.
Thickening or a persistent lump in or near the breast or underarm, even through the menstrual cycle.
Changes in the skin of the breast or nipple, such as dimpling, puckering, scaliness, redness, or inflammation.
Skin that appears red, purple, or darker in certain areas of the breast.
A hardened, marble-like area under the skin.
Discharge from the nipple, which may be blood-stained or clear.
Diagnostic Methods for Breast Tumours
To diagnose breast tumours, healthcare providers may begin with a physical exam or a mammogram to check for signs. They may also use the following tests:
Breast ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast.
Breast MRI: Provides detailed images using magnets and radio waves.
Breast biopsy: Involves taking a small sample of tissue to check for cancer cells.
Immunohistochemistry test: Identifies hormone receptors in the tumour.
Genetic testing: Detects mutations linked to breast cancer.
Advances in Breast Tumour Detection
Significant progress in breast tumour detection has improved early diagnosis and outcomes. Key advancements include:
Digital Mammography: Produces clearer images, improving detection in dense breast tissue. It has replaced traditional film mammography.
3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis): Creates a three-dimensional view of the breast, enhancing accuracy and reducing false alarms.
Breast MRI: Highly sensitive for spotting tumours, especially in high-risk individuals, often used alongside mammograms.
Ultrasound Advances: Automated Breast Ultrasound Systems (ABUS) provide detailed imaging, especially for dense breasts.
Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI): Identifies small tumours by detecting abnormal cell activity, even in dense tissue.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Enhances image analysis, speeds up diagnosis, and reduces errors by detecting subtle changes.
Treatment Approaches for Breast Tumours
Surgery is the main treatment for breast cancer, but other therapies are often used alongside it. Common surgical options include:
Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast.
Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumour while preserving the breast.
Breast Reconstruction: Restores the breast’s shape after surgery.
Apart from surgeries there are a few other treatment options such as:
Radiation Therapy: Includes intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) to target cancer during surgery.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
Hormone Therapy: Includes selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) to block hormones that fuel cancer growth.
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Prognosis and Follow-Up Care
Prognosis and follow-up care for breast cancer are critical aspects of a patient's journey, focusing on long-term health and well-being. Here's a brief overview:
1. Factors affecting prognosis
Early Detection: Detecting breast cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment. Smaller, localised tumours tend to have higher survival rates.
Cancer Stage: The stage at diagnosis significantly affects prognosis. Early-stage cancers (Stage 1 or 2) have a better chance of being treated successfully compared to advanced stages (Stage 3 or 4).
Tumour Characteristics: The type, size, and grade of the tumour, along with hormone receptor status (such as ER-positive or HER2-positive), help shape prognosis and treatment plans.
Overall Health: A person’s general health, age, and how they respond to initial treatments can impact their risk of recurrence or metastasis.
2. Importance of regular follow-up and monitoring
Regular follow-up and monitoring the patient's health during the treatment and post it is very important:
Regular Monitoring: After treatment, follow-up visits include physical exams, mammograms, and sometimes additional tests like MRI or ultrasound to check for recurrence or spread.
Blood Tests: These can help monitor tumour markers or assess the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.
Supportive Care: Emotional support, counseling, and survivorship programs play a key role in addressing the psychological effects of cancer.
Lifestyle Changes: Healthy eating, regular exercise, and managing stress are encouraged to improve overall health and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Adjuvant Therapies: Some patients may continue hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of long-term care.
Patient Support and Resources
Support and resources for breast cancer are crucial for helping patients beyond medical treatment. Support groups, both in-person and online, allow patients to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Organisations like the American Cancer Society offer helpful information on treatment options, financial support, and other services. Mental health support, such as counseling, helps with emotional challenges, and survivorship programs assist with care after treatment.
Educational materials and helplines provide important knowledge to ensure patients and their families feel supported. These resources help build hope, strength, and well-being throughout the journey.
Conclusion
Breast tumours are a significant health concern affecting many, but early detection and advancements in treatment offer hope for better outcomes. Understanding the different types of tumours, recognising symptoms, and knowing risk factors can empower individuals to take proactive steps. With continuous improvements in detection methods, treatments, and patient support, there is a growing focus on providing comprehensive care. By staying informed and maintaining regular check-ups, patients can navigate their journey with greater confidence and strength.
Consult Top Gynaecological Oncologist
Consult Top Gynaecological Oncologist
Dr. Rani Bhat
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20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obs & Gyn), MRCOG (UK), Fellowship in Gynae-Oncology (Singapore) Fellowship in Gynae-Oncology & Robotic Surgery (Hong Kong) Diploma in Gynaecological Operative Endoscopy (France)
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