Urgent considerations

See Differentials for more details

Invasive carcinoma of the breast

May present as palpable or non-palpable masses (detected incidentally or through screening). On physical examination, the patient usually demonstrates a firm mass, which may be associated with axillary lymphadenopathy, skin changes, and nipple discharge. However, given the widespread use of screening mammography, an asymptomatic patient may be diagnosed with breast cancer after abnormal calcifications and/or architectural distortion are noted on mammogram. Treatment requires a multi-disciplinary approach, involving medical oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiation oncologists.

Carcinoma in situ of the breast

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the breast is a non-invasive cancer that originates in the lobules (LCIS) or ducts (DCIS) of the breast. It is typically asymptomatic and diagnosed at screening. Diagnosis is typically based on findings at mammography, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, or biopsy.[18] Tamoxifen can be used to prevent disease progression to invasive carcinoma.

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