Having breast cancer is a frightening experience, but not all breast cancers are the same. Some rarer forms of breast cancer can be more difficult to detect and treat.

In this article, we will discuss ten warning signs of an aggressive and rare form of breast cancer known as inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).

What is Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)?

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that makes up just 1-5% of all breast cancer cases.

Unlike traditional breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer does not typically produce a lump, making it more difficult to detect. Instead, IBC presents with symptoms that mimic an infection of the breast- redness, warmth, and swelling. The breast may also feel heavy, tender, or itchy, and the skin may have a thick or pitted texture.

Because the symptoms of IBC often resemble an infection, IBC may be misdiagnosed or go untreated until it spreads.

Warning Signs of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor immediately.

1. Sudden Onset of Breast Swelling

In IBC, the breast may suddenly become swollen, red, and feel warm or tender to the touch. The skin may also appear pitted, like an orange peel, and may have a purplish color.

This swelling may occur quickly, within days or even hours, and may be accompanied by pain.

2. Breast Rash or Redness

One of the most common early symptoms of IBC is a rash or reddening of the breast. The skin may appear to be inflamed or irritated and may feel rough or scaly to the touch. The rash may be itchy, and over time can spread to the surrounding skin.

3. Breast Pain or Tenderness

Inflammatory breast cancer can cause breast pain or tenderness that is not easily relieved with over-the-counter pain medication. The breast may feel heavy, and lifting the arm on the affected side may be difficult or uncomfortable.

4. Change in Breast Texture

As IBC progresses, it may cause the skin on the breast to become thick or pitted, with a texture similar to an orange peel. This is due to the accumulation of fluid in the breast tissue and the surrounding lymph nodes.

5. Nipple Inversion or Discharge

IBC may cause the nipple to become inverted, or pull inwards, towards the breast. In some cases, a nipple discharge may also be present. These changes are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as skin redness or swelling.

6. Breast Enlargement

In some cases, IBC may cause the breast to become enlarged or become noticeably asymmetrical. This enlargement may be caused by the buildup of fluid in the breast tissue.

7. Flu-like Symptoms

The symptoms of IBC may resemble those of a breast infection, or mastitis. In addition to breast redness and swelling, patients with IBC may experience fatigue, fever, or flu-like symptoms.

These symptoms may be mistaken for a common cold or flu, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

8. Breast Skin Color Changes

As IBC progresses, the skin on the breast may become discolored. The skin may appear purple or pink-tinged, and may have a shiny, glazed appearance. This discoloration is due to the buildup of fluid in the breast tissue and surrounding lymph nodes.

9. Breast Itching or Irritation

Due to the inflammation and fluid buildup in the breast tissue, patients with IBC may experience itching or irritation on the breast skin. This itching may be mild at first and progress to a more severe, persistent itch.

10. Sudden Changes in Breast Appearance

It is important to pay attention to sudden changes in the appearance of the breast, even if they do not involve pain or tenderness. This may include sudden changes in breast shape, symmetry, or texture.

Any sudden changes in the breast that cannot be explained by injury or normal hormonal fluctuations should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor immediately. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer, but early detection and treatment can lead to a better prognosis.