Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare cancer found more often in women. It tends to strike earlier than other forms of breast cancer. Symptoms include warmth, swelling, nipple changes and the discoloration of one breast. The cancer cells grow quickly and block lymphatic circulation, which can lead to tenderness and pain. Women diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer usually need several kinds of treatment, help and support.
Drug Therapy
Treatment for inflammatory breast cancer often begins with chemotherapy. This can eradicate some of the cancer cells, increasing the odds that surgery will be able to remove all of the cancer. Chemotherapy may be used again after surgery and radiation to ensure that all the cancer cells are gone. Hormone therapy may also be utilized. Some cases of inflammatory breast cancer respond to targeted drug therapy, which uses a different type of medication, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Surgery
The surgery usually performed on women with inflammatory breast cancer is a modified radical mastectomy. This involves the removal of the diseased breast and the surrounding lymph nodes. Individuals with this type of cancer are usually not candidates for lumpectomies that preserve part of the diseased breast.
Radiation
Many women are prescribed radiation therapy after surgery. A radiation oncologist aims radiation beams at the chest and under the arm in an effort to kill any remaining cancer cells. Radiation may also be given to women who do not have surgery for their cancer. The American Cancer Society explains that a typical regimen involves radiation therapy once or twice a day for around six weeks.
Education
Once a diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer has been made, the woman is often pressured to make quick treatment decisions. This is due to the rapid growth and spread of this type of cancer. It is important that she is educated on all aspects of the illness in order to make good decisions. She also needs information about how to deal with the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation and how to care for herself in the weeks after surgery. This education may be provided by an oncology nurse, the treating physician, a medical social worker or the American Cancer Society.
Support
Inflammatory breast cancer is a frightening diagnosis. It is described by the National Cancer Institute as a "very aggressive" cancer, causing many women to seek emotional support for strength in fighting the illness and dealing with the reality of a life-threatening diagnosis. Family, friends, support groups and mental health counselors are good options when seeking emotional support.
