Endoporical breast carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that originates in the ducts or lobules of the breast and has not spread beyond the breast tissue. It is a relatively rare form of breast cancer, accounting for around 10% of all cases.

In this article, we will discuss the diagnosis and treatment options for endoporical breast carcinoma.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing endoporical breast carcinoma begins with a thorough physical examination and medical history assessment.

The healthcare provider will check for any visible abnormalities or changes in the breasts and ask about symptoms such as breast pain, nipple discharge, or lumps. Following this, various imaging tests and biopsies may be recommended.

Mammography

Mammography is a commonly used screening tool for breast cancer. It involves using low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue.

Mammograms can help identify any suspicious masses or areas of calcifications that could indicate the presence of endoporical breast carcinoma.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue. It is particularly useful in distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.

Ultrasound-guided biopsies can also be performed to obtain tissue samples for further examination.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be recommended to assess the extent of the cancer and determine if it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other areas.

MRI can provide detailed images of the breast tissue and can be helpful in planning surgical interventions.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the definitive diagnostic tool for endoporical breast carcinoma. It involves removing a small sample of tissue from the breast for examination under a microscope.

There are different types of biopsies, including fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, and surgical biopsy, depending on the size and location of the suspicious area.

Staging

Once the diagnosis of endoporical breast carcinoma is confirmed, staging is performed to determine the extent of the cancer and guide treatment decisions.

Staging typically involves imaging tests, such as CT scans or bone scans, to check for any signs of metastasis.

Treatment Options

The treatment plan for endoporical breast carcinoma depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences.

The main treatment modalities include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is the primary treatment for endoporical breast carcinoma. The goal is to remove the tumor and surrounding breast tissue while preserving the appearance and function of the breast.

The surgical options may include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue), mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), or sentinel lymph node biopsy (removal of the first few lymph nodes to test for cancer spread).

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It is often recommended following surgery to target any remaining cancer cells in the breast or nearby lymph nodes.

The duration and intensity of radiation therapy may vary depending on the individual case.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs that kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It is typically administered intravenously or orally and can be used before or after surgery.

Chemotherapy may also be recommended for patients with advanced or metastatic endoporical breast carcinoma to help control the spread of the disease.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is most commonly used for endoporical breast carcinoma that is estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) or progesterone receptor-positive (PR-positive).

It works by blocking the effects of estrogen or lowering estrogen levels in the body. Hormone therapy can be in the form of medication or, in some cases, surgical removal of the ovaries.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that focuses on specific genetic mutations or proteins found in cancer cells.

In endoporical breast carcinoma, targeted therapy may involve drugs that specifically target the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in some cases. These drugs can help slow down the growth of cancer cells and improve outcomes.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan are crucial for managing endoporical breast carcinoma effectively.

With advances in diagnostic techniques and treatment options, the prognosis for patients with this type of breast cancer has improved significantly. It is important for individuals to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and undergo regular screenings to detect any abnormalities at the earliest stage possible.