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.
Lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that originates from the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk in the breast. It’s the second most common type of breast cancer, often growing more slowly and less likely to form a lump than the more common type, ductal carcinoma. Largely affecting postmenopausal women, it can also spread to other parts of the body.
Lobular carcinoma, while not as prevalent as its counterpart ductal carcinoma, remains a significant player in the realm of breast cancers. It is essential to understand what this condition entails, the risks involved, and its treatment and management options, to ensure early detection and effective treatment. This article delves into everything you need to know about lobular carcinoma.
Lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. This cancer is categorized into two: Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS), which remains within the lobules, and Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC), which has the capacity to spread to other parts of the body.
The main difference between lobular carcinoma and other breast cancers lies in their origin point. While lobular carcinoma begins in the lobules, other types — including the most common, ductal carcinoma — originate within the milk ducts.
The exact cause of lobular carcinoma is unclear; however, genetic and lifestyle factors play a significant role. Certain inherited gene mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, heighten the risk of developing lobular carcinoma.>/p>
Lifestyle and environmental factors, such as hormone replacement therapy during menopause, consuming alcohol, and obesity, also prove influential, with research suggesting that these habits can increase the chance of developing this disease.
The main symptoms of lobular carcinoma vary and may include changes in the breast’s texture, thickening or hardening of an area compared to the rest, and subtle changes in breast size or shape. In some cases, lobular carcinoma does not present clear-cut lumps typical with other breast cancers, making it critical to remain mindful of any changes.
Detection entails both physical signs and medical testing, for instance, mammograms, ultrasound, and biopsies. Doctors may utilize one test or a combination, depending on individual patient assessment.
To diagnose lobular carcinoma, doctors employ various testing procedures – the most common is a mammogram. If abnormalities are noticed, the next step is usually an ultrasound or MRI to further investigate the area of interest. A biopsy is then performed to confirm the type and stage of the disease.
The stage of lobular carcinoma is determined based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and the extent of cancer spread. Stages range from Stage 0 (LCIS) – cancer remaining within the lobules, to Stage IV – cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body.
Treatment of lobular carcinoma depends on the disease stage and the patient’s overall health status. Available options include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy.
The choice between lumpectomy and mastectomy often depends on the tumor’s size, its location, and the patient’s preferences. Radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and chemotherapy might also be incorporated into the treatment plan to fight any remaining cancer cells post-surgery.
Coping with a lobular carcinoma diagnosis can be challenging. It not only impacts the physical body but also has a significant psychosocial impact. Support groups, counseling, and conversations with survivors can prove beneficial for emotional well-being during this time.
In all, lobular carcinoma, like any other cancer, demands early detection and aggressive treatment. Regular self-examinations and mammograms play a pivotal role in early detection. By understanding this disease, we can work towards a world where no one is left uninformed, and every woman stands a fighting chance.
Lobular carcinoma contributes approximately 10-15% of all invasive breast cancers. It’s less common than ductal carcinoma, which contributes to about 70-80% of all cases.
Symptoms may include changes in the breast’s texture, thickness or hardening of an area, or subtle changes in breast size or shape. Notably, lobular carcinoma may not present a clear-cut lump, unlike other breast cancers.
It’s typically diagnosed through mammograms, but ultrasounds and biopsies may also be used if the mammogram detects abnormalities.
Lobular carcinoma can be treated through surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy, depending on the disease stage and the patient’s overall health.
While no foolproof prevention measure exists, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying vigilant through regular screening can help reduce risk.
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