Uncontrolled growth of cells of the breast duct or lobe forming a malignant tumour. It is the most common type of cancer in women, specially in older than 40 years old women.
Amongst its risk factors the main ones are age, genetic (BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes), hormonal and ethnic factors, as well as obesity, fat consumption, thoracic radiotherapy, etc.
In its initial stages, usually, there are no symptoms. It first manifests as a palpable, hard, immovable lump with irregular edges. It may cause enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes, changes in the skin of the breast, nipple discharge, nipple retraction, breast pain, bone pain, swelling of an arm and weight loss.
Diagnosis is reached through reviewing the patient's clinical history and a physical examination. It is confirmed with imaging tests such as a mammography, and a tumour biopsy.
Breast cancer treatment includes surgical treatment, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In many cases the treatment is combined, depending on the type of cancer and its level of dissemination.
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