{"id":391,"date":"2018-10-23T18:55:49","date_gmt":"2018-10-23T18:55:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:jwcistage.wpengine.com\/breast\/conditions\/"},"modified":"2025-04-09T19:25:31","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T19:25:31","slug":"types-of-breast-cancer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.saintjohnscancer.org\/breast\/breast-cancer\/types-of-breast-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"Types of Breast Cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":null,"protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":397,"menu_order":1,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-391","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":{"layers":[{"acf_fc_layout":"layer_content_sidebar","layer_label":"","layer_headline":"","layer_intro":"","layer_content":"

The Margie Petersen Breast Center provides a variety of services from routine examination to oncologic treatment, starting with our breast clinic. We can determine benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) conditions and develop highly effective treatment plans supported by a multi-disciplinary team.<\/p>\n

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The Margie Petersen Breast Center at Providence Saint John’s is well known for their breast clinic services and care mantra.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, additional tests may be needed to determine the type of breast cancer and stage, including if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.<\/p>\n

Women can take a proactive role in their breast health by conducting self examinations<\/a> and our physicians can confirm results with a clinical breast exam. Proudly, we can diagnose any breast condition in one day.<\/p>\n

What are the Main Types of Breast Cancer?<\/h2>\n

Breast cancer is a diverse group of diseases with several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and behaviors. No two persons will have the exact same breast cancer profile because the cancer is derived from each person\u2019s unique genetic mutation.<\/p>\n

Each type of breast cancer may require different approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and management, so it’s crucial for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific condition. Early detection through regular screenings and awareness of breast cancer risk factors can also play a significant role in improving outcomes. <\/p>\n

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What is Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)?<\/h3>\n

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) is considered the earliest form of breast cancer. DCIS is a non-invasive breast cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but have not spread outside the duct. It is often considered a precancerous condition.It is often detected during routine mammograms before any symptoms appear. This is why regular screening is crucial.<\/p>\n

The prognosis for DCIS is generally favorable, with high survival rates due to its early detection and effective treatment options. However, untreated DCIS can potentially develop into invasive breast cancer, so timely treatment is essential.

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Though visible on a mammogram, Invasive Lobular Carcinoma can be difficult to detect.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/p>\n

What is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)?<\/h3>\n

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer. IDC begins in the milk ducts but then breaks through the duct wall and invades the surrounding breast tissue. It can also spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. This is why it is referred to as invasive. <\/p>\n

IDC is often detected through mammograms or physical exams, sometimes presenting as a lump in the breast. Symptoms can include changes in breast shape, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge.<\/p>\n

What is Invasive Lobular Carcinoma?<\/h3>\n

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) originates in the lobules, which is the milk-producing glands of the breast. It has a tendency to spread in a single-file pattern, making it harder to detect through mammograms and potentially more challenging to treat. Symptoms might include thickening of an area in the breast, fullness, or changes in breast texture rather than a distinct lump. <\/p>\n

What is Invasive Mucinous Carcinoma?<\/h3>\n

Invasive Mucinous Carcinoma is a rare subtype of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma that is characterized by the presence of mucus-producing cancer cells. It tends to be less aggressive and is less likely to spread to the lymph nodes. Invasive mucinous carcinoma can be detected through mammograms or physical exams. It often presents as a soft, well-defined mass. Because of its mucin content, it may appear differently on imaging studies compared to other breast cancers. <\/p>\n

What is Inflammatory Breast Cancer?<\/h3>\n

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) is a rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that usually presents with reddening and swelling of the skin rather than a distinctive mass. This type of breast cancer only accounts for 1% of all breast cancer cases in the United States. It is called inflammatory because the affected breast often appears swollen, and red, and feels warm to the touch. IBC tends to grow and spread quickly, making early diagnosis and aggressive treatment essential.<\/p>\n

What is Metastatic Breast Cancer?<\/h3>\n

Metastatic Breast Cancer occurs when cancer cells have spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body (stage IV breast cancer). The common areas of metastasis are the brain, liver, bones, and lungs. \u00a0Breast cancer cells spread from the original tumor through the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. Metastatic Breast Cance is considered advanced and may not be curable, but it can be managed with various treatments to extend life and improve quality of life.\n<\/p><\/div>\n","layer_is_content_auto_columns":false,"sidebar_position":"right","widgets":false,"layer_icon":"","layer_icon_position":"left","layer_background_color":"","layer_id":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"layer_content_sidebar","layer_label":"","layer_headline":"","layer_intro":"","layer_content":"

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer<\/h2>\n

While some types of breast cancers may have specific symptoms, most share similar symptoms. Therefore, it is highly recommended to see a specialist when changes occur. Most women notice changes as they happen and can articulate how quickly they evovle. This information is important for your provider to know. <\/p>\n

Common signs and symptoms shared across breast cancers include:<\/strong><\/p>\n