Causes and risk factors
The cells undergo an abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation. Eventually, these clusters of cells lead to formation of a tumor or mass. What causes this abnormal growth is still a mystery. However, tedious research and study of various cases have laid down certain risk factors which can predispose a person to cancer. Genetic factors head the list. Many cancers are caused due to certain abnormality or mutation in the genes, which stimulate the cells to undergo an abnormal proliferation. An individual having a strong family history and someone suffering from Klinefelter syndrome or having undergone any radiation treatment especially around the chest area, is more prone to developing cancers. Hormonal therapy, especially used for treatment of prostrate complaints and certain liver diseases and testicular conditions also increase the chances. Certain lifestyle factors also contribute to the causation among which excessive consumption of alcohol and obesity are the major contributing ones. Studies have suggested that cancer was also reported in males who are engaged in specific occupations or industries where there is exposure to gasoline oil or those working in steel mills.
Clinical presentation:
Indolent growth of the abnormal cells in its initial stage does not pose any noticeable signs and symptoms in the body, hence the patient remains asymptomatic for a long period. Over a period of time though, the patient come up with other health issues. On most of the occasions, the patient usually comes up with vague symptoms like bodyache, fatigue, and tenderness all over the body. A noticeable change in weight is complained by the patient or is brought into notice by the known ones. Either one or both the breasts are affected. An individual can complain about feeling a lump or tumor in the breast on palpation. The size of the affected breast is large as compared to another, change in color of the breast is seen and the nipple becomes inverted. Abnormal discharges from the nipple or discoloration around the nipples is seen. In advanced cases where metastasis has taken place, certain other symptoms related to other systems of the body can also be seen.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the local examination of the breast being carried out by the doctor. Self-breast examination points to a detection of lump. Mammography of the breast, breast ultrasound, and MRI scan of the breasts are recommended. A biopsy will help to differentiate between malignant and benign tumors.
Treatment:
Depending upon the involvement of the breast and the stages of cancer, treatment is initiated. Breast cancer is treated with surgery. Depending upon the involvement of the tissues, excision of the tumor or entire breast or a part of the breast which is affected, is done. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are advised.
