Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and affects millions of women each year.

While breast cancer is a well-known disease, there is a rare and deadly form of the disease that often goes undetected until it has reached an advanced stage. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is an aggressive type of cancer that affects the breast tissues and lymphatic system. This cancer is difficult to diagnose, and the symptoms are often overlooked by both patients and doctors.

What is Inflammatory Breast Cancer?

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) makes up about 1% to 5% of all breast cancers. This type of breast cancer develops when cancer cells block the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast.

Unlike other breast cancers, IBC does not form a lump in the breast tissue but presents itself as a red, swollen, and warm-looking breast. The skin on the breast may also appear thickened and have a pitted appearance.

IBC is an aggressive type of breast cancer that can spread to other parts of the body quickly. The cancer cells can invade the lymph nodes in the armpit, and the cancer can also spread to distant organs such as the lungs, bones, or liver.

What are the Symptoms of IBC?

IBC symptoms can develop quickly, often in a matter of weeks or months. Unfortunately, the early symptoms are often overlooked by women and their doctors. The symptoms of IBC may include:.

1. Redness or Rash on the Breast

IBC can cause the breast to become swollen, red, and warm to the touch. The breast may also develop a rash or exhibit ridges and bumps, which make it look like an orange peel.

2. Discoloration of the Nipple or Areola

The nipple and areola may become sore, itchy, scaly, or change color. The nipple may also become inverted or change shape.

3. Breast Pain or Tenderness

Pain or tenderness is a common symptom of IBC, and it may feel like a stabbing or burning sensation. The pain may be constant or intermittent.

4. Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit or Neck

IBC can cause the lymph nodes in the armpit or neck to become swollen and tender.

5. Breast Enlargement or Swelling

The breast may become larger, appear swollen, or feel heavy, even without the presence of a palpable lump.

6. Itching, Soreness, or Burning Sensation

The skin on the breast can feel itchy or sore, and there may be a burning sensation or discomfort in the breast.

7. Change in Texture

The skin on the breast may appear thickened or have a dimpled or puckered appearance. This can make the breast look and feel different from its usual texture.

8. Unintended Weight Loss

IBC can cause unintentional weight loss, which may indicate that the cancer has metastasized or spread to other organs in the body.

9. Fatigue and Weakness

Cancer-related fatigue is a common symptom of IBC, and the patient may feel tired or weak despite getting a good night’s sleep.

10. Change in Breast Shape or Size

IBC may cause the breast to change shape or size, which can be a sign that the cancer is growing or spreading.

What Causes IBC?

The exact cause of IBC is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to changes in the DNA of the breast cells. These changes can cause the cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a tumor.

IBC can occur in women of any age, but it is more common in women who are younger than 40 or African American women.

How is IBC Diagnosed?

IBC is challenging to diagnose because it often does not present with a palpable breast lump, which is a typical sign of breast cancer. Women who experience any of the above symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

The diagnosis of IBC involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy. The doctor will check the breast for redness, swelling, or warmth and perform a clinical breast exam. Imaging tests such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI can help identify the tumor and determine its size and location.

A biopsy is the only definitive test to diagnose IBC.

How is IBC Treated?

IBC requires aggressive treatment because of its rapid growth and high rate of metastasis. Treatment generally involves a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.

The goal of treatment is to shrink the tumor, kill the cancer cells, and prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Prevention of IBC

There is no guaranteed way to prevent IBC, but many risk factors can increase the chances of developing this cancer. Women should maintain regular breast cancer screening and be aware of any changes in the breast or nipple.

Women with a family history of breast cancer should speak to their doctor about genetic testing and develop a plan to manage their risk.

Conclusion

IBC is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that can go undetected until it has reached advanced stages. It is important for women to know the signs and symptoms of this cancer and seek medical attention if they suspect something is wrong.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for the effective management of this disease.