Breast Cancer: Diagnosis & Treatment

Overview

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the epithelial cells of the milk ducts or lobules of the mammary glands. It is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Diagnosis

Breast cancer diagnosis involves a combination of imaging techniques and biopsy procedures to confirm the presence of malignant cells.

Imaging Studies:

• Mammography – Primary screening method for detecting abnormalities.

• Breast Ultrasound – Helps differentiate between solid tumors and cysts.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Provides detailed imaging, especially useful for high-risk patients.

Biopsy Techniques:

• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy – Extracts cell samples for cytological examination.

• Core Needle Biopsy – Removes a small tissue sample for histopathological analysis.

• Stereotactic Mammotome Biopsy – A minimally invasive procedure that uses imaging guidance to extract tissue.

• Incisional Biopsy – Surgical removal of a portion of the tumor for detailed examination.

Treatment

Breast cancer treatment depends on tumor size, stage, and biological characteristics. The main treatment options include:

Surgical Treatment:

• Total Mastectomy – Complete removal of the affected breast.

• Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy) – Removes only the tumor while preserving breast tissue, suitable for small tumors.

• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Identifies whether cancer has spread to lymph nodes.

Chemotherapy:

• Used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) for tumor reduction.

• Administered after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to lower the risk of recurrence.

• Typically involves a combination of two to three drugs for effective cancer cell destruction.

• In cases of metastatic or recurrent breast cancer, chemotherapy is the primary treatment.

Radiotherapy:

• Post-Surgery Radiation – Used after breast-conserving surgery to prevent local recurrence.

• Post-Mastectomy Radiation – Recommended for patients with multiple lymph node metastases.

• Palliative Radiation – Helps manage bone and organ metastases to relieve symptoms.

Hormone Therapy:

• Effective for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer by blocking estrogen or progesterone, which fuels cancer growth.

Cost of Diagnosis & Treatment:

• 13,000,000 – 17,000,000 KRW