External And Internal Features Of Breast Cancer

It is one of the common malignant diseases in women. While any portion of the breast may be affected, the disease most commonly begins in the upper and outer quadrant. A blood-stained discharge from the nipple, presence of a “lump” with fixation to the underlying tissues, retraction of overlying skin, retraction of nipple, peau d’ orange, and enlargement of axillary lymph nodes are some of the important features.

Reason for Fixation of the tumor

Infiltration of cancer cells along with the fibrous tissue which connects the skin to the pectoral fascia[ligaments of cooper]and its fibrosis results in the Fixation of the tumor.

Retraction Of Nipple

Retraction of the nipple is due to the extension of the growth along the lactiferous ducts and the subsequent fibrosis.

Peau D’ Orange[“The Skin of an Orange”]

The hair follicles overlying the tumor appear to be retracted . This results in the collection of lymph and edema of skin around the hair follicle .So, the skin resembles an orange peel.

Mammography

Soft tissue radiography or mammography is useful in the early detection of breast cancer.

Treatment

Mastectomy, followed by radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

Signs of breast cancer

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast.