Other factors like hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition or viruses may also play a part. The most common sign of breast cancer is a lump in the breast. Nipple discharge may be present. In advanced stages ulceration may develop on the skin and signs of secondary metastasis to other organs like the lungs, liver and lymph nodes may be present. The best investigation is regular self-examination of the breasts.
Definitive diagnosis is made by incisional, excisional, or needle biopsy of the mass.
Mammography is a very effective method of diagnosing cancers of the breast in their early stages even before they are palpable. Therefore, routine mammograms are now recommended for all women deemed to be in the high-risk category for developing breast cancer. There are three main methods of treatment used in breast cancer. The treatment consists of resection of the lump with removal of a varying amount of surrounding healthy tissue, ranging from a margin of breast tissue to the entire breast, axillary lymph nodes, mammary lymphatic chain, and pectoral muscles. Breast reconstruction can be done later for cosmetic purposes.