Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer in Patparganj
Breast cancer is a condition in which abnormal cells in breast tissue grow uncontrollably and may invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body. It can affect people differently depending on the type of cancer, its stage, and individual health factors. Recognising changes in the breast and seeking appropriate medical evaluation can help establish a diagnosis and guide treatment planning.
People searching for Breast Cancer in Patparganj may want to understand the warning signs, diagnostic tests, surgical options, and available treatment approaches. A medical consultation can help clarify whether a breast change requires further investigation and which treatment options may be appropriate.
Dr. Mallika Dhanda is associated with surgical oncology, breast surgery, and endocrine surgery. Breast cancer care may involve clinical assessment, imaging, biopsy, surgery, and coordination with other specialists, depending on the diagnosis.
The information below provides an overview of breast cancer and its management. It is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast acquire changes that allow them to multiply abnormally. It most commonly originates in the milk ducts or lobules, although other breast tissues can also be involved.
Breast cancer includes several distinct types. Their behaviour and treatment requirements may differ according to the tissue of origin, tumour characteristics, and extent of disease.
Common types include:
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Abnormal cells remain within the milk ducts and have not invaded surrounding breast tissue.
- Invasive ductal carcinoma: Cancer begins in a milk duct and grows into nearby breast tissue.
- Invasive lobular carcinoma: Cancer originates in the milk-producing lobules and spreads into surrounding tissue.
- Other breast cancer types: Less common forms may have specific pathological and treatment characteristics.
A confirmed diagnosis helps the treating team determine the type of breast cancer and assess the treatment options.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer may present with a noticeable change, but some cases are identified through screening before symptoms develop. Symptoms can also occur because of benign breast conditions, so examination and appropriate investigations are important.
Possible warning signs include:
- A new lump or thickened area in the breast.
- A lump or swelling in the underarm.
- Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance.
- New nipple inversion or an unusual nipple change.
- Spontaneous nipple discharge, particularly if blood-stained.
- Skin dimpling, thickening, or an orange-peel appearance.
- Persistent redness, swelling, or a non-healing sore affecting the breast.
- Persistent, localised discomfort or another unexplained breast change.
These symptoms do not automatically indicate cancer. However, a new or persistent change should be assessed by a healthcare professional rather than diagnosed through self-examination alone.
What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can develop in people with or without identifiable risk factors. Having a risk factor does not mean that cancer will necessarily develop, and some people diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history.
Factors associated with breast cancer risk include:
Increasing age: The likelihood of breast cancer generally increases with age, although it can occur in younger individuals.
Family history: Having close relatives with breast cancer or certain other cancers may influence personal risk.
Inherited genetic variants: Changes in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
Hormonal and reproductive factors: Certain lifetime hormonal exposures and reproductive factors may influence risk.
Previous breast conditions: Some high-risk breast lesions or a personal history of breast cancer can affect future risk.
Previous radiation exposure: Radiation treatment involving the chest at a young age may increase risk later in life.
Lifestyle and other health factors can also contribute to risk. A healthcare professional can help determine whether a person may benefit from genetic counselling, additional assessment, or an individualised screening plan.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves identifying the abnormality, examining the breast tissue, and determining whether cancer is present. The investigations recommended depend on the person's age, symptoms, clinical findings, and previous medical history.
1. Clinical Breast Examination
The clinician reviews symptoms, relevant medical history, family history, and previous test results. A physical examination may help identify a lump, skin change, nipple abnormality, or enlarged lymph nodes.
2. Breast Imaging
Imaging provides information about the location and characteristics of a breast abnormality.
- Mammography: Uses low-dose X-rays to examine breast tissue and may be used for screening or diagnostic assessment.
- Breast ultrasound: Uses sound waves to examine breast tissue and help characterise certain lumps.
- Breast MRI: May be recommended in selected situations when additional information is needed.
Not every patient requires all these investigations. The clinician determines the appropriate combination based on the findings.
3. Breast Biopsy
A biopsy involves collecting a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. It is commonly used to establish whether a suspicious lesion is cancerous and to identify its pathological characteristics.
Depending on the findings, additional testing may determine hormone receptor status and HER2 status. These results can influence the treatment plan.
4. Cancer Staging
If breast cancer is confirmed, further assessment may be needed to determine its extent. Staging considers factors such as tumour size, lymph node involvement, and whether the disease has spread to distant parts of the body.
Not every patient requires the same staging investigations. Tests are selected according to the clinical situation.
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Treatment is individualised according to the type and stage of cancer, tumour biology, general health, and patient preferences. It may involve surgery, medicines, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatments.
Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgery may be recommended to remove the tumour and assess nearby lymph nodes when indicated.
Breast-conserving surgery: This procedure removes the cancer with an appropriate margin of surrounding tissue while preserving the remaining breast. Radiation therapy is commonly recommended afterward, depending on the clinical circumstances.
Mastectomy: This operation removes most or all of the breast tissue. It may be considered when breast-conserving surgery is unsuitable, when disease extent warrants it, or after discussion of the available options.
Lymph node assessment: Selected patients require evaluation of lymph nodes in the underarm to help determine the extent of disease and guide further treatment.
The appropriate procedure depends on the tumour, imaging and biopsy results, patient preferences, and other clinical factors. No single surgical option is suitable for everyone.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses targeted radiation to treat cancer cells in a specific area. It is often recommended after breast-conserving surgery and may be indicated after mastectomy in selected cases.
The need for radiation and the treatment schedule depend on the patient's diagnosis and treatment plan.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines that act against cancer cells. It may be given before surgery to reduce tumour size or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence in appropriate cases.
Its role depends on the cancer's stage, biological characteristics, and the expected benefits and risks.
Hormone Therapy
Some breast cancers grow in response to hormones such as oestrogen or progesterone. Hormone therapy may be recommended when the cancer has relevant hormone receptors.
The specific medicine and duration of treatment depend on the patient's clinical circumstances.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Targeted medicines act on particular features of cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be appropriate for selected breast cancer subtypes and clinical situations.
These treatments are not required for every patient. Their use depends on pathology results, biomarkers, disease stage, and current treatment recommendations.
The Role of Breast Cancer Surgery
Breast cancer surgery is an important component of treatment for many patients with localised disease. Surgical planning involves reviewing imaging, biopsy results, tumour characteristics, and the patient's overall health.
The surgeon explains the proposed operation, potential complications, recovery considerations, and available alternatives. Some patients may require treatment before surgery, while others may undergo surgery first. The sequence depends on the type and extent of the cancer.
For individuals exploring Breast Cancer in Patparganj, a specialist consultation can help clarify the diagnosis, discuss whether surgery is appropriate, and explain how surgical care may fit into a broader treatment plan.
Depending on the case, care may involve coordination between a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiologist, and pathologist.
Recovery and Follow-Up After Treatment
Recovery depends on the type of surgery, other treatments received, and the patient's general health. Postoperative care may include wound monitoring, pain management, arm and shoulder movement guidance, and follow-up appointments.
Some patients may experience swelling, altered sensation, fatigue, or other treatment-related effects. These should be discussed with the treating team, particularly if symptoms worsen or interfere with daily activities.
Follow-up care may include clinical examinations, appropriate breast imaging, review of ongoing medication, and assessment of new symptoms. The schedule is determined according to the patient's diagnosis and treatment history.
Patients should seek medical advice if they notice a new lump, persistent swelling, unusual wound discharge, fever, or another concerning change during recovery.
Breast Cancer in Patparganj: When to Seek a Consultation
A new breast lump, unexplained nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or another persistent breast change warrants appropriate evaluation. Early assessment can help determine the cause and identify whether additional testing is required.
Dr. Mallika Dhanda is associated with surgical oncology, breast surgery, and endocrine surgery. Individuals considering a consultation for breast cancer or a suspicious breast lesion should confirm appointment availability and the services offered at the relevant Patparganj facility.
During a consultation, patients can discuss their symptoms, investigations, diagnosis, treatment alternatives, and the possible role of surgery. Treatment recommendations should be based on established clinical findings and an informed discussion of benefits, risks, and alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the early signs of breast cancer?
Possible signs include a new breast lump, changes in breast shape, nipple inversion, unusual discharge, skin dimpling, or underarm swelling. These changes require assessment but do not always indicate cancer.
2. How is breast cancer confirmed?
Breast cancer is generally confirmed through a biopsy, supported by clinical examination and appropriate imaging. Additional tests may be needed to determine tumour characteristics and stage.
3. Is surgery necessary for every breast cancer patient?
Surgery is an important treatment for many patients, but the approach and timing vary. Some patients receive systemic treatment before surgery, and treatment decisions depend on the cancer type and extent.
4. What is the difference between breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy?
Breast-conserving surgery removes the tumour while preserving the remaining breast tissue. Mastectomy removes most or all of the breast tissue. The appropriate option depends on individual clinical findings and preferences.
5. Can breast cancer treatment involve medicines as well as surgery?
Yes. Depending on the cancer's characteristics, treatment may include chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy in selected cases, and radiation therapy.
6. When should I seek medical advice for a breast lump in Patparganj?
A new or changing breast lump should be assessed by a healthcare professional. A consultation can help determine whether imaging, biopsy, observation, or another treatment is appropriate.
