One breast cancer type called inflammatory breast cancer, or IBC, is a unique and aggressive kind that is rare, accounts for 1 - 5% of all cases, but deadly. It is one of the only breast cancer types that have no lumps, which makes it one of the most undetectable and scariest.
There are four breast cancer signs that could mean you have inflammatory breast cancer:
oSkin around the breast is hot to the touch
oBreasts are asymmetrical and were not before
oThe skin becomes red or pink
oThere is discharge from the nipples
Below are six frequently asked questions about inflammatory breast cancer.
What should you do if you if you have these symptoms?
If any of these signs persist for more than a week, speak to a physician.
What is the median age affected?
Women 45 ? 55 are more susceptible to this specific type of breast cancer.
How do you identify inflammatory breast cancer?
Through surgical biopsy; IBC cannot be identified through Mammogram, Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Core biopsy.
What is the survival rate?
IBC has a 40% survival rate over a five year period. Many times the surgeon may remove the breast too early and cause a reoccurrence.
How is Inflammatory Breast Cancer Treated?
Chemotherapy before surgery, as well as drugs such as trastuzumab and lapatinib.
