Inflammatory Breast Cancer

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/sites-types/ibc ^

[kcvl]

I had never heard of this type of breast cancer until a friend sent me an email about it today.

I thought it might be helpful to someone else too.

[kcvl]

What is inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)? Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but very aggressive type of breast cancer in which the cancer cells block the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast. This type of breast cancer is called “inflammatory” because the breast often looks swollen and red, or “inflamed.” IBC accounts for 1 to 5 percent of all breast cancer cases in the United States (1). It tends to be diagnosed in younger women compared to non-IBC breast cancer. It occurs more frequently and at a younger age in African Americans than in Whites. Like other types of breast cancer, IBC can occur in men, but usually at an older age than in women. Some studies have shown an association between family history of breast cancer and IBC, but more studies are needed to draw firm conclusions (2).

What are the symptoms of IBC? Symptoms of IBC may include redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump in the breast. The redness and warmth are caused by cancer cells blocking the lymph vessels in the skin. The skin of the breast may also appear pink, reddish purple, or bruised. The skin may also have ridges or appear pitted, like the skin of an orange (called peau d'orange), which is caused by a buildup of fluid and edema (swelling) in the breast. Other symptoms include heaviness, burning, aching, increase in breast size, tenderness, or a nipple that is inverted (facing inward) (3). These symptoms usually develop quickly—over a period of weeks or months. Swollen lymph nodes may also be present under the arm, above the collarbone, or in both places. However, it is important to note that these symptoms may also be signs of other conditions such as infection, injury, or other types of cancer (1).

How is IBC diagnosed? Diagnosis of IBC is based primarily on the results of a doctor's clinical examination (1). Biopsy, mammogram, and breast ultrasound are used to confirm the diagnosis. IBC is classified as either stage IIIB or stage IV breast cancer (2). Stage IIIB breast cancers are locally advanced; stage IV breast cancer is cancer that has spread to other organs. IBC tends to grow rapidly, and the physical appearance of the breast of patients with IBC is different from that of patients with other stage III breast cancers. IBC is an especially aggressive, locally advanced breast cancer.

Cancer staging describes the extent or severity of an individual's cancer. (More information on staging is available in the National Cancer Institute (NCI) fact sheet Staging: Questions and Answers at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Detection/staging on the Internet.) Knowing a cancer's stage helps the doctor develop a treatment plan and estimate prognosis (the likely outcome or course of the disease; the chance of recovery or recurrence).

[willk]

It took the lives of my ex-wife’s mother and sister. About 2 years ago she developed simular symptoms but,thank God, it turned out to be a benign condition.

[Marie2]

May they rest in peace.

[Stayfree]

Thanks for the info, my wife just finished 2 years of treatment and is clean so far, her best friend is just starting treatment...

as a note to everyone else here at FR, one out of three women will get breast cancer. You men out there need to make sure that all your favorite women check themselves or ask you to AND get mammograms at least every year. I almost lost my wife because of a screwup at our local rural doctor's office, please do not ignore my warning. If any of you men here on FR need to talk to a guy who has been through this and can recommend the absolute best place to go, I am here for you...my personal e-mail is dhouston@verison.net.....

[Stayfree]

Sorry, my fingers mispoke, my personal e-mail address is
dhouston@verizon.net...

[GOP Poet]

I am sorry to hear that and glad to hear your ex-wife is okay.

[Westlander]

Digital mammography is the best out there these days for imaging of breasts. Be sure you go to an institution that has an onsite Radiologist with MRI and Ultrasound capabilities for possible biopsy. Prognosis depends on what type of Ca and what stage it’s in. (been there, done that, Seminoma Grade 2A-B survivor)

[kcvl]

Did they have the inflammatory type?

I have had breast cancer but it wasn't this type. It seems this type doesn't have a ‘lump’ but more of a sore that looks like an insect bite.

[Stayfree]

My wife’s surgeon says that there aren’t that many radiologists that can properly read breast MRI’s. The one used by the Comprehensive Cancer Center in Palm Springs, CA has one of the best in the country, and everyone at the clinic makes you feel right at home...absolutely wonderful people, all of them.