Risk Factors in Breast Cancer
What is estrogen in relation to breast cancer?
This hormone increases breast cancer risk when exposure is prolonged.
What is a core needle biopsy?
This biopsy technique is preferred over fine needle aspiration because it preserves tissue architecture for receptor testing.
What is the most common type of invasive breast cancer?
Invasive ductal carcinoma
What are the features of invasive breast carcinoma?
A hard, irregular, non-mobile breast mass.
What is breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy)?
Removal of the tumor with preservation of the remainder of the breast.
What is a first-degree relative?
A family history of breast cancer increases risk, especially if a close relative is affected.
When do you use breast ultrasound?
In women under 35, this imaging modality is typically preferred first-line.
What is ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)?
Cancer confined within the ducts without invasion beyond the basement membrane.
What is peau d’orange?
Skin change when the breast looks like an orange which results from lymphatic obstruction by tumor cells.
Why is radiotherapy used in breast cancer?
This adjuvant therapy reduces local recurrence after breast-conserving surgery.
What is BRCA?
This gene mutation is commonly linked to hereditary breast cancer.
What is screening mammography?
This imaging test is the standard screening modality in women over 50.
What are estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2 used for?
These three receptors are routinely tested to guide prognosis and treatment decisions.
Why check the axillary lymph nodes in diagnosis?
Enlargement of this lymph node group suggests regional metastatic spread.
What is tamoxifen?
This selective estrogen receptor modulator is used in ER-positive breast cancer.
What is nulliparity?
Having no children slightly increases breast cancer risk.
What is malignancy?
If findings from clinical exam, imaging, and biopsy are discordant, management should assume this until proven otherwise.
What is triple-negative breast cancer?
This subtype lacks expression of ER, PR, and HER2 and is often more aggressive.
What receptor does trastuzumab target?
HER2 receptor
What is regional lymph node involvement (nodal staging)?
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to evaluate this aspect of disease.