Sometimes breast cancer symptoms send people to their physician. Other times, however, people don’t know something may be wrong until they undergo screening.
Breast cancer signs and symptoms
A lump in the breast may be the first sign of breast cancer. But small lumps can be easy to miss. Often, people don’t realize they have a lump until it shows up on a mammogram (breast X-ray). A mammogram may identify abnormalities long before you feel them yourself.
It’s important to realize that most lumps are not cancerous. However, if you can feel a lump yourself, or if something suspicious appears on your mammogram, it’s critical for a physician to look into it. The earlier you find and treat breast cancer, the better your chances are for a positive outcome.
You should also see your physician as soon as possible if you have:
- A lump or thickness near your breast or under your arm
- A nipple that sinks inward or is red, scaly or thick
- Breast dimpling or puckering
- Changes in the skin of your breast, including increased flaking, pitting, thickening or redness
- Discharge from your nipple other than breast milk
- Unexplained swelling changes in the shape of your breast, especially if it’s only on one side
Breast cancer diagnosis
A screening mammogram looks for breast cancer when you don’t have signs or symptoms of the disease. If physicians find something suspicious on the mammogram — or if you do have signs or symptoms — you may need another imaging test. There are several other options, such as 3D mammography, ultrasound or breast MRI. Our breast specialists use the most advanced imaging tools available to help rule out breast cancer without more invasive procedures.
We use a breast biopsy to confirm breast cancer. A biopsy involves removing cells from the suspicious area of the breast and looking at them under a microscope. This test may also determine the type and stage of the disease. Results from a biopsy will guide your treatment plan.
We offer different types of breast biopsies. Your physician will decide which type is best for you.
- Image-guided minimally invasive biopsies use mammography, ultrasound, contrast-enhanced mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for guidance. The most common types are core needle biopsies. A radiologist will first numb your breast and then remove cells from the breast with a large, hollow needle.
- Surgical biopsy involves making a small incision in your breast and removing the entire suspicious area or a tissue sample. It may be the best option when the area of interest is too shallow or too deep for a needle biopsy. Physicians may also turn to surgical biopsy if other types of biopsies don’t provide the answers they need.
Breast cancer screening: mammography and clinical breast exams
Breast cancer screening options include:
- Mammography. A mammogram is a special X-ray of the breast. Digital technology allows physicians to manipulate the size, contrast and orientation of breast images. Together with computer-aided detection, this technology can help find breast cancer in its earliest stages. We offer 3D screening and diagnostic mammography at all of our Schmidt Family Center for Breast Care locations.
Baptist Health South Florida recommends yearly mammograms beginning at age 40 if you’re at average risk. For some women, other screening tests may be recommended. These supplemental imaging tests could include breast ultrasound, contrast enhanced mammography, molecular breast imaging, and/or breast MRI. Speaking with your physician can help you learn about your breast cancer risk and the best screening options for you.
- Clinical options. At the Lynn Women’s Institute, our clinical breast specialist, Cheryl Moss-Mellman, MD, offers formalized breast risk assessments to determine a woman’s lifetime risk for developing breast cancer along with a clinical breast examination. The outcomes include tailored screening, prevention and risk-reduction strategies, as well as guidance and education on the potential for pharmacologic intervention. Genetic counseling and testing are provided to individuals whose personal and family history raises concerns of a predisposition for breast cancer. At the conclusion of your visit, we provide you with a plan for follow-up care.
