Understanding Breast Paget’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Understanding Breast Paget’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Breast Paget’s disease is a rare type of breast cancer that accounts for only one to four percent of all breast cancer cases. It is characterized by abnormal cells that grow around the nipple and areola. This disease can also affect the skin around the nipple and appear like eczema, which can lead to misdiagnosis. Therefore, early detection is crucial for successful treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment options available for Breast Paget’s disease.

Symptoms
The most common symptom of Breast Paget’s disease is an itchy, scaly, red rash that appears around the nipple and areola. The rash may be mistaken for eczema or dermatitis. Other symptoms of Breast Paget’s disease include:

1. Nipple discharge, which may be clear or bloody
2. Crusty or matted nipple
3. Nipple inversion
4. Thickened skin around the nipple
5. Breast lump or mass

Causes
The exact cause of Breast Paget’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to occur when cancer cells from a tumor inside the breast travel up the milk ducts and to the nipple. Breast Paget’s disease is associated with invasive breast cancer and is often diagnosed in women over the age of 50. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing Breast Paget’s disease include:

1. Family history of breast cancer
2. Genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2
3. Hormonal changes
4. Radiation exposure

Diagnosis
Diagnosing Breast Paget’s disease starts with a physical examination and medical history review. A mammogram and an ultrasound may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is necessary to determine whether cancer cells are present. The biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from the affected area and examining it under a microscope.

Treatment
The treatment for Breast Paget’s disease depends on the extent of the disease and the underlying breast cancer. Treatment options may include:

1. Surgery: A lumpectomy or mastectomy may be recommended to remove the affected tissue.
2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to kill any cancer cells that may have been left after surgery.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be recommended to kill cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body.
4. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be used to block the production of estrogen and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Conclusion
Breast Paget’s disease is a rare form of breast cancer that affects the skin around the nipple and areola. It may be mistaken for other skin conditions, which can lead to misdiagnosis. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. If you experience symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment options for Breast Paget’s disease vary depending on the extent of the disease and the underlying cancer. If you have any concerns or questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

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