Breast Cancer Information
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. Cancer occurs when cells become abnormal and divide without any order or control. The most common types of breast cancer include ductal carcinoma (in the lining of the breast duct) and lobular carcinoma (in the breast lobule). Other types of breast cancer are uncommon.
Breast cancer that has spread outside of the breast is often found in the lymph nodes under the arm (axilla). If the cancer has reached the lymph nodes, this may indicate that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as bone, lungs, or liver. This is called metastatic breast cancer.
Early breast cancers usually do not cause symptoms or pain. But as the cancer grows, changes can occur that women need to be aware of, such as a lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm, a change in the size or shape of the breast, areola, or nipple (dimpled, puckered, scaly). If a woman notices any changes she should see her physician.
An abnormal mammogram, lump or other breast changes require evaluation by a physician. Based on the physical exam, palpation of the breast, mammogram, or ultrasound, the physician may order a needle biopsy to evaluate the breast tissue for a diagnosis (most biopsies do not show cancer cells). If cancer is found, a pathologist will identify what type of cancer it is and whether it is invasive. Once the physician has the biopsy results, treatment options will be discussed and individual recommendations made.
More information can be found in printed information that will be given to you:
Breast Cancer Facts vs. Myths
Tumor Information
Comparison of Biopsy Types
Surgery Information
Exercises After Surgery
Understanding Laboratory Results
Chances of Recurrence
Radiation Therapy
Chemotherapy and Hormonal
Therapy Information
Chemotherapy, General Instructions
Chemotherapy, Endocrine Therapy and Supportive
Therapy - Medications and Side Effects
Tamoxifen: Questions and
Answers
Treatment Guidelines
Clinical Practice Guidelines
Protocol for Management
of Neutropenic Fever
Protocol for Management
of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Guidelines for
Adjuvant Herceptin Cardiac Testing and Frequency of Administration
Guidelines for
Administration of Zometa (Zoledronic Acid)
Guidelines for
Use of Endocrine Therapy in Postmenopausal Women
Follow up Information
Nutrition Information
Exercise and Breast Cancer
Reach to Recovery
American Cancer Society Resource Center Listings
Coping with Breast
Cancer
Dialog Support Groups
Life after Loss
Look Good, Feel Good
Man to Man
Support Groups