What are the different types of breast cancer?

What is breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths in women. Overall, one in ten women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Fortunately, the development of early cancer detection programs and effective treatment options has reduced the rate of mortality. Earlier detection and treatment of breast cancer can significantly improve a patient’s survival rate before cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body.

Types of breast cancer

There are many types of breast cancer. Breast cancer is either localized noninvasive (in situ) or invasive (metastasizes to other parts of the body). Breast cancer usually involves either the ducts that transport milk or lobule glands that produce milk.

• Ductal carcinoma in situ – cancer cells that are localized within the ducts of the breast.
• Invasive ductal cancer - most common type of breast cancer. Originates in the ducts and invades surrounding tissue.
• Invasive lobular cancer – less common than ductal breast cancer. Originates in the lobular glands and invades surrounding tissue.
• Inflammatory breast cancer – rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that causes swelling and redness of breast tissue.
• Paget’s disease – another rare form of breast cancer that causes redness and itching of the nipple.