Breast cancer has affected many women throughout the years, but it has been only recently that we have begun to understand the inherited forms of breast cancer. Here, cells will divide and grow indefinitely resulting in an abnormal cell clone mass called a tumor. This is cancer. Proto-oncogenes may be involved in cellular processes. If mutant, their encoded proteins may induce cell malignancy.
Tumor suppressors check cell-cycle progression.
Breast cancer is often detected when there are visible changes in the breast, such as a lump, discoloration, swelling, irritation, or discharge. Invasive ductal carcinoma is the most common kind of breast cancer. Here, breast cancer cells cross the lining of the milk duct or lobule and begin to invade adjacent tissues. Diagnosis of breast tumors and cancers is offered via the imaging process of mammography, or breast x-rays. Diagnostic mammography involves additional views and angles to obtain more data on a suspicious area.