Breast Surgery

Breast cancer

A malignant tumour of breast epithelium whose diagnosis, prognosis and treatment depend on whether it is in situ or invasive, its stage, grade and ER, PR and HER2 profile.

Definition

Breast cancer is a malignant tumour arising from the epithelium of the breast ducts or lobules. It may be in situ or invasive and is characterised further by histological grade, anatomical stage, ER/PR hormone-receptor status and HER2 status.

First principles

In situ and invasive disease are different clinical problems

Ductal carcinoma in situ is confined by the basement membrane and cannot metastasise as DCIS. Invasive carcinoma has breached the basement membrane and can spread to regional nodes and distant organs. The distinction changes staging, surgery, systemic treatment and prognosis.

You’ve reached the end of the preview

The rest of this extended textbook page is part of full access. Create a free account to read the sample topics in full and try sample questions, then upgrade to unlock every high-yield and extended page, plus the complete question bank.

This page is exam revision material, not medical advice, and must not be used for patient care. Always check drug doses against the BNF and current guidance. Full disclaimer.