Try adjusting your type
14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a type of breast cancer that starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to other parts of the body. It’s the second most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 10% of all cases. Unlike other types, ILC tends to occur in both breasts simultaneously.
For anyone affected by breast cancer, understanding the different types, stages, and treatment options available is of utmost importance. One variant, invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), poses unique challenges due to its distinctive characteristics in comparison to other types of breast cancer. Today, we delve into an insightful guide on ILC, its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Known as one of the most prevalent types of cancer amongst women globally, breast cancer refers to malignant cells growth in the breast tissue. It is commonly associated with genetic predisposition, aging, lifestyle choices, and hormonal influences.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma is a subtype of breast cancer that begins in the milk-producing lobules, eventually invading the surrounding normal breast tissue. It poses dire consequences as it can also spread to distant organs within the body.
The term “Invasive Lobular Carcinoma” traces its roots to the pathology of the disease. The term “invasive” denotes its capability to spread beyond its origin, the lobules (small organs producing milk), into surrounding tissues. “Carcinoma” refers to cancer originating in the epithelial tissue, which forms the lobules, among other structures in the body.
Although all forms of cancer are serious, ILC uniquely differs from other types of breast cancer. Unlike invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), which starts in the milk duct, ILC begins in the lobules. ILC is also harder to detect as the cells grow in a line formation rather than the clumpy configuration found in IDC. Thus, regular mammograms may not catch ILC in its early stages, making it potentially more dangerous.
According to the American Cancer Society, ILC accounts for about 10% of all invasive breast cancers. While it is commonly diagnosed in older women, it can also affect younger women. The incidence of ILC is higher in developed countries, reflecting the more extensive use of mammography screening.
Understanding the statistics of ILC enables more insightful decision-making regarding prevention, early detection, and treatment. It is important to note that early-stage ILC is highly treatable, though its late detection can result in a less favorable prognosis. Survival rates vary depending on various factors, including the stage at diagnosis, the individual’s overall health, and their response to treatment.
The anatomy of the breast is integral to understanding ILC. Our breast consists primarily of fatty tissue interspersed with glandular tissue. This glandular tissue forms lobules (which produce milk) connected by a network of ducts (carrying the milk to the nipple). ILC originates in these very lobules.
ILC typically begins as a non-invasive condition called lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), where abnormal cells are confined to the lobules. If untreated, LCIS can invade the breast’s stroma (connective tissue), becoming invasive lobular carcinoma and potentially metastasizing to other parts of the body.
While ILC may sometimes be asymptomatic, symptoms can include areas of thickening or hardening in the breast, changes in nipple appearance, redness or scaling of the breast skin, and in some cases, swelling.
Diagnosis of ILC usually involves a combination of screening methods like mammograms, ultrasound, and MRI. A final confirmation is typically made via a biopsy, where a sample of tissue is extracted and examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.
Surgery is a standard treatment for ILC, with two primary types: lumpectomy (removal of the cancer and a small margin of healthy tissue) and mastectomy (removal of an entire breast). The choice between the two typically depends on the tumor size and location.
Chemotherapy involves using powerful drugs to kill cancer cells, while radiation therapy uses high-energy particles to eradicate cancer. Combination therapy (using chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or even hormone therapy depending upon the situation) is a frequently used strategy for treating ILC.
Although an ILC diagnosis can dramatically affect life, it mustn’t define you. With proper medical care, emotional support, and lifestyle adaptations, quality of life can be maintained post-diagnosis. It is crucial to engage in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet, and practice mindfulness to aid in recovery and emotional well-being.
Managing ILC involves following your treatment plan, attending all follow-up appointments, and staying educated about your condition. Moreover, joining a support group and maintaining healthy relationships can provide emotional support during challenging times.
Research continues to make strides in ILC treatment. The advent of precision medicine, the development of targeted therapies, and progress in immunotherapy represent the exciting potential for future treatment of ILC.
While significant progress has been made, much remains to be discovered about ILC. Future research could involve exploring the genetic predispositions to ILC, investigating the mechanisms responsible for ILC’s unique pathology, and developing even more effective treatments.
From understanding the term ILC to its epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and future scope, we unraveled this complex diagnosis step by step. Remember, quick intervention plays a significant role in dealing with ILC successfully.
Though Invasive Lobular Carcinoma is a daunting diagnosis, frequent screenings, immediate intervention, and advances in the medical field can significantly influence patient outcomes. The future holds much promise, and with continued research, there is hope for an even greater understanding of ILC and how to combat it.
ILC is a type of breast cancer that starts in the lobules, the milk-producing glands of the breast, and can invade surrounding tissues.
ILC accounts for roughly 10% of all invasive breast cancers, making it the second most common type of breast cancer after invasive ductal carcinoma.
The primary difference lies in the origin. While ILC starts in the lobules, other cancers like invasive ductal carcinoma originate in the milk ducts. Moreover, ILC is often harder to detect with mammography as its cell growth pattern differs from other types.
Symptoms can include areas of thickening in the breast, changes in nipple appearance, and swelling. However, it can sometimes show no symptoms.
Treatments range from surgical interventions to chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy based on the tumor’s stage and characteristics.
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