According to Breastcancer.org, breast cancer starts in the milk-producing glands known as the lobules, or the breast ducts, which are channels that run from the lobules to the nipple. It can also begin in the fibrous connective tissue of the breast. Breast cancer mostly affects women, although it can affect men, and is always caused by a genetic error. However, this genetic error is not usually inherited; rather, it occurs as a result of the aging process or general 'wear and tear,' says Breastcancer.org.
Symptoms
According to the Cancer Research UK, a lump in the breast is the first symptom of breast cancer. However, 90 percent of lumps are non-cancerous or benign. Nevertheless, Cancer Research UK advises that individuals consult a doctor as soon as a lump is found.
Other potential symptoms include a change in the shape or size of a breast, dimpled skin and a rash around the nipple area. Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a person has breast cancer, however, says Cancer Research UK.
Mammography
A common breast cancer diagnostic tool is mammography. This technique uses X-rays to create an image inside of the breasts. Mammography is a straightforward procedure that only takes a few minutes to carry out. As younger women usually have denser breast tissue, a mammogram is not always effective in women under 35. As such, younger women will likely need to undergo a breast ultrasound, advises the UK National Health Service.
Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound is used for women under 35 or women with a breast lump to determine whether the lump is solid or contains fluid. It is a painless procedure that employs sound waves to create an image of the inside of the breast. The doctor will use the image to determine whether there are any abnormalities in the breast tissue, according to UK NHS.
Biopsy
A biopsy of the breast may be taken to enable closer examination of breast tissue cells. A doctor may employ one of several biopsy methods. These include needle aspiration, excision biopsy, needle biopsy, mammatone biopsy, wire guided biopsy and punch biopsy. A doctor will decide on which type of biopsy method should be carried out. For example, a doctor may order a punch biopsy when a disease of the nipple, known as Paget's disease, is suspected, says Cancer Research UK.
