Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for less than 5% of all breast cancer cases.

It is called “inflammatory” because the breast often looks swollen and red, similar to an infection or inflammation, but there is no infection present. Understanding the early warning signs of IBC can help with early detection and treatment, which can improve the chances of a successful outcome. Here are 10 early warning signs of inflammatory breast cancer, illustrated with pictures:.

Sign #1: Swelling of the Breast

One of the earliest signs of IBC is swelling of the breast. This swelling is often sudden and rapid, and can cause one breast to be noticeably larger than the other. The breast may also feel heavy or tender to the touch in this area.

Sign #2: Redness, Warmth, and Inflammation of the Breast

As mentioned earlier, IBC can cause the breast to look red and inflamed, similar to an infection. The skin may also feel warm to the touch and may have a dimpled texture that looks like the skin of an orange peel.

Sign #3: Soreness or Pain in the Breast

IBC can cause soreness or pain in the breast, which may feel like a burning or stabbing sensation.

The pain may be constant or may come and go, and it may be more intense than the usual breast tenderness experienced during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Sign #4: Itching or Nipple Discharge

Some women with IBC may experience itching or a rash on the breast, or a discharge from the nipple. The discharge may be clear or bloody and may come from only one nipple.

Sign #5: Changes in the Appearance of the Breast

IBC can cause significant changes in the appearance of the breast, including a change in size, shape, or contour. The breast may also appear to be more full or heavier than usual, and may have a flattened or inverted nipple.

Sign #6: Enlarged Lymph Nodes

IBC can cause the lymph nodes under the arm to become enlarged, which may be felt as lumps or bumps. The lymph nodes may or may not be tender to the touch.

Sign #7: Breast is Warm to the Touch

IBC can cause the breast to feel warm to the touch, similar to a fever. The warmth may extend beyond the affected breast and into the surrounding area.

Sign #8: Thickening of the Breast Tissue

IBC can cause the breast tissue to thicken, which may be felt as a lump or area of density in the breast. The thickening may extend beyond the affected breast and into the surrounding area.

Sign #9: Changes in Breast Size or Shape

IBC can cause significant changes in the size or shape of the breast, which may be noticeable over a short period of time. One breast may appear larger or smaller than the other, and the shape of the breast may be distorted or irregular.

Sign #10: Rapid Progression of Symptoms

One of the most significant warning signs of IBC is a rapid progression of symptoms, which may develop over a period of days or weeks. The breast may go from looking and feeling normal to appearing red, swollen, and inflamed in a short amount of time.

If you experience any of these early warning signs of inflammatory breast cancer, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may order tests, such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy, to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Early detection and treatment of IBC can improve your chances of a successful outcome.