What is Inflammatory Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast?
It is a rare type of aggressive breast cancer that arises from the cells lining the milk ducts of the breast and then spreads outside the ducts. In inflammatory ductal carcinoma of the breast, cancer cells block the lymphatic vessels under the skin, making the affected breast appear swollen, red, and inflamed. It is an aggressive tumor a can grow and spread rapidly to other parts of the body.Disease Epidemiology
It is a rare type of cancer that can occur at any age but more common in females under 40 years of age. It usually develops in women and rarely in men. It accounts for 1-5% of all breast cancers in the United States. It is more common in females of African-American ethnicity as compared to the white population.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however certain hereditary and genetic (faulty alteration in the gene) mutations are considered responsible for the development of inflammatory ductal carcinoma of the breast. Obesity is a risk factor for the development of inflammatory ductal carcinoma of the breast.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Rapid swelling of the breast
- Breast redness
- Changes in the skin colour
- Retraction (inward turning) of the nipple of the affected breast
- Constant Itching on the breast skin
- The warmness of the breast skin
- The thickness of the skin of the breast looks like orange
- Pain in the breast
- Affected breast looking larger and heavier than the other breast
- Swelling or enlargement of the armpit and collar bone lymph nodes
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to diagnose inflammatory ductal carcinoma breast cancer, its size, and spread in the body.- Mammography ( X-Ray breast)
- CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the size, site, and extent of the tumour.
- Skin biopsy
- FNA( Fine needle aspiration) or core needle biopsy; are diagnostic procedures in which a sample of cells from a mass or lump is taken using a fine needle, which is then examined under a microscope.
- Histopathological examination
Treatment
Surgical removal of the affected breast (mastectomy) or tumour, the affected lymph nodes, along with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is the main treatment option.What Support can we Give for Inflammatory Ductal Carcinoma of Breast?
Inflammatory Ductal Carcinoma of the breast is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Inflammatory Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
