Summary about Disease
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. It's called "invasive" because the cancer cells have spread from the lobules to surrounding breast tissue. ILC often presents differently from other types of breast cancer, sometimes forming a subtle thickening rather than a distinct lump.
Symptoms
Thickening in one area of the breast, rather than a distinct lump
Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Inverted nipple
Skin changes, such as dimpling or thickening
An area of fullness or swelling in the breast
Often, ILC may not be detected by self-exams due to its spreading growth pattern.
Causes
The exact cause of ILC is not fully understood, but it's thought to be related to genetic mutations that affect the function of cell growth and division. Hormone receptor status plays a significant role; most ILCs are estrogen receptor-positive. Factors that increase the risk of breast cancer in general, such as age, family history, and hormone exposure, can also influence ILC development. The CDH1 gene mutation, which codes for E-cadherin (a cell adhesion protein), is found in some cases.
Medicine Used
Treatment options for ILC typically involve a combination of:
Surgery: Lumpectomy (removal of the tumor) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
Radiation therapy: Used to kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
Hormone therapy: Such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, used to block the effects of estrogen on cancer cells, particularly in estrogen receptor-positive ILC.
Chemotherapy: Used to kill cancer cells throughout the body, particularly in more advanced cases or when the cancer is aggressive.
Targeted therapy: Medications that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors in hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative ILC.
Is Communicable
No, invasive lobular carcinoma is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from one person to another.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent ILC since the exact cause is unknown. However, general breast cancer risk reduction strategies include:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Regular exercise
Limiting alcohol consumption
Breastfeeding (if possible)
Discussing hormone therapy options with a doctor
Genetic testing and counseling (if there is a strong family history of breast or other cancers).
Regular screening mammograms, and clinical breast exams as recommended by a healthcare provider.
How long does an outbreak last?
ILC is not an outbreak. It is a form of cancer that can grow over time if untreated. There is no set duration; it depends on how quickly it is detected and treated, as well as the aggressiveness of the cancer.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: Doctor examines the breasts for lumps or other abnormalities.
Mammogram: X-ray of the breast to look for tumors.
Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue.
MRI: Uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast.
Biopsy: A sample of breast tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the characteristics of the cancer cells (e.g., hormone receptor status, HER2 status).
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly from person to person. Some individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms until the cancer has grown and spread. Others may notice subtle changes in their breasts over weeks or months. There is no typical or predictable timeline. Regular screening can help detect the cancer earlier, before symptoms become apparent.
Important Considerations
ILC often presents differently than other types of breast cancer, making it more challenging to detect on mammograms.
It has a tendency to spread in a single-file pattern, which can make it difficult to feel as a distinct lump.
ILC is often hormone receptor-positive, which means that hormone therapy can be an effective treatment option.
Regular screening and awareness of subtle breast changes are crucial for early detection.
Consider a second opinion after diagnosis to ensure all options have been discussed.