Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know
Locally advanced breast cancers are large cancers that are often fixed to the skin or the underlying chest wall muscles and may be associated with large underarm lymph nodes. Unlike inflammatory breast cancers, they do not exhibit skin redness. These cancers generally have a better prognosis than breast cancers with an associated inflammatory process.
Diagnosing Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
The diagnosis of locally advanced breast cancer tumors follows a systematic process. First, a mammogram of both breasts is performed to identify any abnormalities. Then, a core biopsy of the tumor is conducted to confirm the presence of cancer. A metastatic workup is carried out to determine the extent of cancer spread, if any.
Treatment Options for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
Following the diagnostic workup, a course of chemotherapy is administered to help shrink the tumor and treat the disease. In most cases, this is followed by a mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast) and radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
The Importance of Expert Care
It is crucial to have dedicated breast specialists review each patient's case to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Through a multidisciplinary approach, breast cancer patients can receive comprehensive care, improving their chances of successful treatment and recovery.
