Understanding the Various Types of Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Guide

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer found in India, which constitutes 28.2% of all female cancer cases. In 2022, the country had reported 216,108 breast cancer cases. Breast cancer is a complicated and multifaceted disease with different subtypes, like that of Ductal Carcinoma, Lobular Carcinoma, and Triple-negative Breast Cancer. To combat this devastating disease, it is essential to understand breast cancer for effective management and treatment.

This blog explains the various breast cancer classifications and treatments, aiming to provide individuals with the knowledge necessary to steer through the complex landscape of breast cancer.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant disease characterised by the unprecedented growth and proliferation of abnormal cells in the breast tissue.

Understanding breast cancer requires familiarity with its various classifications, including:

• Invasive Breast Cancer - Originates in the milk ducts or lobules and invades surrounding breast tissue.
• Non-Invasive Breast Cancer - Limited only to the milk ducts or lobules without invading surrounding tissue.

Non-Invasive Breast Cancer Types

1. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

   DCIS originates in the milk ducts and is considered "in situ" because the cancerous cells are confined to the ducts and will not invade surrounding breast tissue.

   Symptoms

   DCIS may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, it can be detectable through mammograms (regular breast screenings).

   Treatment

   Treatment for DCIS typically involves:

   • Surgery (Lumpectomy) - Removing the cancerous cells and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
   • Radiation Therapy - This may be recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.

2. Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)

   LCIS is characterised by abnormal cell growth in the breast lobules. Although it is sometimes referred to as "cancer," LCIS is not considered true cancer because it does not invade surrounding tissue.

   Symptoms

   LCIS is typically asymptomatic and often discovered during biopsies (examination of the lump tissue).

   Treatment

   Since LCIS is not considered true cancer, treatment options focus on risk reduction and preventive measures, including:

   • Regular Monitoring – Includes consistent observation with regular mammograms, clinical breast exams, and breast MRI.
   • Preventive Measures - Hormone therapy may be recommended to decrease the risk of developing invasive breast cancer.

Invasive Breast Cancer Types

1. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

   It is the most common breast cancer type, originating in the milk ducts and invading surrounding breast tissue.

   Symptoms

   Common signs of IDC are:

   • Pain
   • Texture changes in the breast
   • Discharge from nipple
   • Lump in the breast

   Treatment

   Treatment for IDC usually involves a combination of:

   • Surgery – Lumpectomy (removing the tumour and surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removing the entire breast).
   • Chemotherapy - Using medications to terminate cancer cells.
   • Radiation Therapy - Utilising high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
   • Targeted Therapy - Using medicines that specifically target cancer cells.

2. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

   It originates in the lobules (milk-producing glands) and often goes unnoticeable.

   Symptoms

   Common signs of ILC are:

   • Thickening or dimpling in the breast
   • Changes in breast textures
   • Nipple size and shape changes

   Treatment

   Treatment for ILC is similar to IDC and involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Imaging techniques (MRI, ultrasound, and mammography) may also be required to determine detailed images of breast tissue and the extent of the disease.

3. Other Invasive Types

   • Triple-negative breast Cancer (TNBC) – An aggressive cancer that quickly spreads to the nearby tissues. It is treated with surgery and chemotherapy.
   • HER2-Positive Breast Cancer - It over expresses the HER2 protein, which helps cancer cells to grow. It is treated with targeted therapies.
   • Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) – A rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that causes inflammation with symptoms such as redness and swelling. It requires intense treatments.

4. Rare Types of Breast Cancer

   • Paget's Disease of the Nipple - A rare type of breast cancer that originates in the milk ducts and spreads to the nipple and areola area, causing redness and irritation.
   • Phyllodes Tumours - Rare, fast-growing tumours that develop in the breast's connective tissue. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

   Though these are rare types, being aware of them is important for early recognition, which ensures appropriate care and better outcomes.

Treatment and Prognosis Implications

Treatment for breast cancer varies depending on the cancer type, stage, and the individual's overall health. With the advent of advanced surgical techniques and major treatment options such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, cancer care has reached new heights. The prognosis for breast cancer largely depends on early detection, personalised treatment, the stage of cancer, hormone receptor status, and HER2 status. Early detection and tailored treatment approaches can significantly improve survival rates for breast cancer patients.

Final Thoughts

Knowledge of different types of breast cancer can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Detection and screening are vital to improving outcomes for breast cancer patients. Early detection will allow effective treatment and a higher survival rate. The advancement of breast cancer research and treatment provides hope and better outcomes with improved efficiency.

Stay Informed, Stay Empowered: Take Control of Your Breast Health

Suspecting or surviving breast cancer? Schedule your regular mammogram today at AS LifeLine Cancer Care Hospital. We provide you with personalised care and treatment for all types of breast cancer, helping you navigate every step of your breast health journey. Contact us today to get expert guidance and compassionate cancer care.