Breast & endocrine
Breast Conditions & Cancer
A breast lump is not always cancer, but it should be assessed.
Breast changes may be caused by benign or malignant conditions. Early assessment helps determine whether imaging, biopsy, monitoring or treatment is required.
When should you be assessed?
- A new breast or armpit lump
- A change in breast shape or size
- Skin dimpling or an orange-peel appearance
- A nipple turning inward
- Blood or unusual discharge from the nipple
- Skin changes or a wound that does not heal
How is it assessed?
- Clinical examination
- Ultrasound and/or mammogram when appropriate
- Biopsy of a suspicious area
- Staging investigations if cancer is confirmed
Treatment Options
Breast cancer treatment is tailored to the type and stage of disease. Surgery may involve wide local excision or mastectomy, together with assessment of the lymph nodes. Other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy may also be required.
