Breast Cancer

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease that causes breast cells to grow uncontrollably. Men and women can get breast cancer, but it’s much more common in women.

Usually, breast cancer affects the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk, or the ducts, which carry the milk from the glands to the nipple. Breast cancer can also develop in the fatty tissue within the breast.

Dr. Sankhala and his team provide compassionate and comprehensive care for breast cancer, from screening recommendations and an initial diagnosis to guiding you through a personalized treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Symptoms vary based on the type and severity of breast cancer. Common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

• A new lump or area of thickened tissue in the breast or under the arm
• Changes in breast appearance, including shape and size
• Breast pain
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk
• Changes to the skin of the breasts, including peeling
• Newly inverted nipples
• Redness or pitting of the skin that may make it look like the surface of an orange

When breast cancer is in its early stages, it may not cause any symptoms. However, a mammogram can detect small growths and abnormalities that you wouldn’t be able to find on your own.

Routine breast cancer screening, including breast exams and mammograms, improves your chances of early detection and prompt treatment.

What breast cancer treatment options are available?

Dr. Sankhala and his team may take a variety of lab tests and imaging tests to determine the specific type, stage, and grade of breast cancer. Then, they create an individualized treatment plan that incorporates modern and traditional approaches.

Most women with breast cancer undergo surgery to remove all or part of their breasts. Dr. Sankhala and his team recommend specialized surgeons who are experts in their field.

Other options for breast cancer treatment include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted drug therapy

Dr. Sankhala and his team may recommend innovative, research-backed treatments based on your specific genetic and molecular profile.

For next-generation care of breast cancer, call Kamlesh Kumar Sankhala, MD, at NextGen Oncology or book an appointment online today.