Ampath Diagnostic Guide | Pathology solutions are in our DNA
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the breast tissue, often spreading to nearby lymph nodes in the armpit or neck, and potentially to other organs like the lungs, bones, or brain.
Quick Facts:
- Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells that can harm the body by interfering with normal function and spreading to other areas.
- Metastatic breast cancer refers to breast cancer that has spread—it's still breast cancer even if found in other organs (e.g. lungs).
How Common is Breast Cancer?
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women (excluding skin cancer).
- Lifetime risk: ~13% (1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime).
- 2nd leading cause of cancer-related death in women globally (after lung cancer).
- Mortality is relatively low (1 in 38 women worldwide) due to effective screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
- In men: Rare, comprising <1% of male cancers and <0.1% of male cancer deaths.
Am I at Risk?
🧪 Risk Levels
“Average” Risk:
- No personal or family history of breast cancer
- No known genetic mutations
- No prior chest radiation before age 30
“High” Risk:
- Previous breast cancer diagnosis
- Family history (especially early onset cases)
- Known BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations
- Previous radiation therapy to the chest
💡 Genetic testing is available in South Africa and should be paired with proper counselling.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- A palpable lump in the breast or underarm
- Redness, swelling, dimpling, or ulcerated breast skin
- Nipple retraction or discharge (especially bloody)
These symptoms can be caused by other conditions too—consult your doctor for evaluation.
Should I Get a Mammogram?
Yes! Mammography and breast ultrasound (sonar) are key tools for early detection.
- Frequency of screening depends on your risk level
- Discuss this with your family doctor or genetics counsellor
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made via biopsy, examined under the microscope by a pathologist.
Types of Biopsies:
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA): Looks at individual cells
- Core biopsy: Provides larger tissue samples
Pathology Report Includes:
- Cancer type
- Tumour grade (1 to 3)
- Blood vessel involvement
- Hormone receptor status:
- Oestrogen
- Progesterone
- HER2/neu
Managing Breast Cancer
Breast cancer care involves a multidisciplinary team, typically including:
- Surgeons
- Oncologists
- Pathologists
- Radiologists
This team will:
- Stage the cancer (localised, lymph node involvement, distant spread)
- Tailor a treatment plan based on your individual case
Treatment Options
Most patients receive a combination of treatments, such as:
- Surgery (including breast-conserving and reconstructive options)
- Chemotherapy (sometimes given before surgery – neoadjuvant)
- Radiation therapy
Molecular Testing:
In early-stage cases, MammaPrint or Oncotype DX tests may assess the risk of spread and determine if chemotherapy is needed.
In Summary
- Breast cancer is common in both women and men
- Early detection is key—know the signs, get screened
- If you notice changes, see your doctor
- Risk can be inherited—family history and genetics matter
- Diagnosis is made on biopsy by a pathologist
- Treatment should be coordinated by a skilled multidisciplinary team
📍 Ampath National Laboratory Services
🌐 www.ampath.co.za