Understanding Breast Cancer and Recurrence
Breast cancer occurs when the cells in the area of the breast group together and begin to form a tumor. In some cases they can metastasize or spread into nearby tissues or organs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 186,467 women and 1,764 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
Once in remission, there is always a chance the cancer could return. When it comes back a second time it is known as recurrence or a return of the breast cancer. At this point, it may metastasize or spread to other organs. Early detection and testing is very important to catch the cancer early and prevent metastases.
Blood and Tissue Testing
There is a great deal of work continuously being done in breast cancer research. The Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, is working in collaboration with physicians and their School of Medicine to monitor the onset of recurrence in order to save lives and treat the recurring cancer early and properly.
One way this is being done is through a mammaglobin test. This biomarker test recognizes a specific protein that breast cancer cells have. It can be detected in the blood through a biopsy at various intervals throughout remission. If levels are high, that signifies an increased risk that breast cancer has recurred in the breast tissue.
The breast lymph node assay by GeneSearch is a type of test that analyzes breast tissue. It takes a close look at portions of the sentinel lymph node to recognize and identify genes that are typically associated with breast cancer. Instead of using traditional pathology tools, it uses molecular tools in order to get an in-depth look at tissue and any changes in cellular formations and growth that could represent breast cancer recurrence.
Imaging Scans
A PET (Position Emission Tomography) scan is a commonly used test to detect breast cancer and its recurrence. It is similar to an X-ray machine, but it takes a more detailed look at chemical changes and the cellular structure of tissue in the breast or other areas of the body. Radioactive sugar material is injected into the bloodstream so the machine can examine the way cells absorb the substance. This test is generally performed periodically after remission or as directed by an oncologist for preventative measures.
An MRI is a magnetic resonance imaging machine. It is used to take detailed pictures of the breast without using radioactive material. It is non-invasive and commonly used throughout the world, and the images are used to detect any new tumor growths or suspicious clusters of cells that may be linked to a breast cancer recurrence.
An X-ray is a common early detection tool that may be utilized before other expensive gene or imaging tests because it is relatively cheaper and easier for patients to gain access to. X-rays do not recognize off tissue inconsistencies but can be used as a tool to identify tumors safely and accurately. X-Rays are generally a starting point for most oncologists to check for breast cancer recurrence.
