Invasive Breast Carcinoma

What is Invasive Breast Carcinoma?

Invasive breast carcinoma is any type of cancer that has spread from the breast ducts or lobules into surrounding parts of the breast, such as the fat or muscle. It can also spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. With invasive breast carcinoma, the cancer cells can break away from the cancer’s original location and travel to other parts of the body. Invasive breast carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer. More than 80% of all breast cancers are invasive.

Types of Invasive Breast Carcinoma

There are several types of invasive breast carcinoma. The most common types of invasive breast carcinoma are:

• Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (IDC/IDCC) – This is the most common type of breast cancer, and it starts in the cells that line the milk ducts in the breast.
• Infiltrating Lobular Carcinoma (ILC/ILCC) – This type of breast cancer starts in the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk. It is usually found in both breasts at the same time.
• Mucinous Carcinoma – This type of breast cancer affects the connective tissue of the breast, and is usually slow-growing.
• Medullary Carcinoma – This type of breast cancer affects the innermost parts of the breast, and is often slow-growing.

Causes of Invasive Breast Carcinoma

The exact cause of invasive breast carcinoma is unknown. However, there are certain factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing the disease. These include: older age, genetic mutations, having had radiation therapy to the chest in the past, being overweight, using certain kinds of hormone replacement therapy, and having a family history of breast cancer.

Treatment for Invasive Breast Carcinoma

Treatment for invasive breast carcinoma varies, depending on the type of cancer, how advanced it is, and a person’s overall health. Common treatments for invasive breast carcinoma include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. Additionally, some patients choose complementary and alternative treatments, such as herbal medicines, meditation, and acupuncture.

Prevention of Invasive Breast Carcinoma

Although there is no sure way to prevent invasive breast carcinoma, there are steps that a person can take to reduce their risk. These include exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, decreasing alcohol consumption, avoiding or minimizing exposure to radiation and certain chemicals, and eating a healthy diet. Additionally, it’s important for women over the age of 40 to get regular mammograms and clinical breast exams.