Description
Invasive lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk glands (lobules) of the breast and eventually spreads outside the glands and into the surrounding tissue. Unlike other types of breast cancer, invasive lobular carcinoma does not typically produce a lump. Instead, it often produces fullness in the breast or thickening of the breast tissue. Invasive lobular carcinoma is responsible for a relatively small percentage of breast cancers. It is most common in older women, postmenopausal women using hormone replacement and women with a history of lobular carcinoma in situ (milk gland cancer that hasn't spread).
Symptoms
Symptoms may include breast fullness, breast tissue thickening, change in the texture of the skin over the breast and a change in the shape of the nipple.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Testing usually includes a mammogram. Ultrasound of the breast may also be performed. Diagnosis is confirmed with a biopsy or during surgery. A CT or PET scan may be performed to see if the cancer has spread beyond the breast.
Tests:
Biopsy, Mammogram, Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: genetic testing, MRI, CT scan
Specialists:
General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Surgical Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Testing usually includes a mammogram. Ultrasound of the breast may also be performed. Diagnosis is confirmed with a biopsy or during surgery. A CT or PET scan may be performed to see if the cancer has spread beyond the breast.
Tests:
Biopsy, Mammogram, Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: genetic testing, MRI, CT scan
Specialists:
General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Surgical Oncology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the extent of the disease. It may include surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and/or chemotherapy.