Breast Cancer & Other Common Breast Lumps

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes breast cancer?

There are multiple risk factors that lead to breast cancer, mainly a strong family history of cancer, especially first degree relatives, prolonged oestrogen exposure, age and obesity.

While these are some of the more common risk factors, there are no identifiable risk factors for a large number of women.

Are all lumps malignant?

No. Lumps can form for various reasons, from infections and injuries.

What causes benign lumps?

Benign lumps can be caused by normal breast development, hormones, infections, and physical injury.

What are common signs that a breast lump may be malignant?

Lump
A lump may appear on your breast, upper armpit or chest. It may not be visible but can be felt.

Change in skin texture
Dimples or tightly gather wrinkles may appear on the skin of the breast.

Change in contour, shape and size
One breast becomes noticeable larger or lower than the other.

Change in colour
A breast may appear to be inflamed and red in colour.

Nipples appear inverted
Nipples appear to be turned inward, a change from their normal outward appearance.

Nipple discharge
Unusual discharge appears from one or both nipples.

Rash or crusting around nipple
A rash or crusting appears in the nipple or surrounding area.

What are different types of treatment for breast cancer?

There are various treatments for breast cancer. Each is dependent on:

• The stage of the cancer,
• The subtype of breast cancer
• The fitness level of the patient

Treatment options include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiotherapy
• Hormonal therapy
• Contemporary biological agents
• Palliation of the many symptoms due to the spread of cancer

Are benign lumps treated with surgery?

Not all benign lumps require surgery, but all lumps must be asses by a breast surgeon, as soon as possible, to obtain an accurate diagnosis.