If a lump or mass of abnormal tissue is detected on the breast, a doctor will usually perform a biopsy to determine if the cells are cancerous or not. If the lump is indeed cancer, further tests are performed to determine the stage and type of cancer and to help determine prognosis and treatment.
Having a breast biopsy is the only way to definitely diagnose breast cancer. There are several types of biopsies, including…
A self breast exam is an essential step in the early detection of breast cancer. The more familiar you are with your breasts , the more likely you are to catch breast cancer…
Tumors are the actual cancerous growths where the cancer cells congregate and develop. The type and size of the cancerous tumor determines the type of treatment you…
Early detection is critical in the fight against breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, early mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40 and…
A mammogram is an x-ray exam of the breast. It allows the doctor to have a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam. The American…
Over 40,000 women die per year in the United States from breast cancer. This staggering figure can be lowered through early detection and awareness. It is…
A patient is always entitled to a second opinion. Second opinions are best used to gather information to confirm the first doctor's analysis and to help find a doctor…
It is recommended that women perform a self breast exam once a month. Women should both look for any changes in shape…
There are five stages of Breast Cancer. Stage 0 is called nonivasive carcinoma. Stage I is when the tumor is no more than 2 cm across and has not spread past the…
The first trip to see your oncologist can be a anxiety provoking experience. There are a few ways to help you feel at ease for your first trip. Try doing some…
One of the most frightening aspects of my breast cancer diagnosis in 1998 was that I never knew my symptoms might be breast cancer until the doctor told me I needed a biopsy for inflammatory breast cancer. I didn't know that breast cancer doesn't…