Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops as a result of the uncontrolled multiplication of cells in the breast and can spread to surrounding tissues over time. It usually originates in the milk ducts (ducts) or the glands responsible for milk production (lobules). When detected at an early stage, the success rate of treatment is very high.

Breast cancer, one of the most common types of cancer in women, can also occur in men, albeit rarely. Genetic heritage, hormonal imbalances, the aging factor, and lifestyle habits play an important role in the development of the disease. Findings such as a palpable hardness in the breast tissue, deformity, or skin retraction can be early harbingers of the disease. For this reason, regular checks and screenings are of great importance.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is divided into different subtypes, and these types directly affect the course of the disease and the treatment approach. They are determined based on pathological examination and biopsy results.

If we look at it under two main headings as invasive and non-invasive disease;

Non-invasive types

While non-invasive breast diseases are not called clear cancers, the treatment methods for DCIS in particular are similar to invasive cancer diseases. Both types are diseases that should be taken into consideration.

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is an early-stage type of cancer that starts in the milk ducts but does not spread to the surrounding tissues. This stage can usually be detected without showing symptoms, and the chance of complete recovery when treated is quite high.

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)

It is characterized by abnormal cell growth that develops in the lobules, i.e., the milk-producing glands, but does not spread to the surrounding tissues. LCIS may not directly turn into cancer, but it increases the probability of developing breast cancer in later years.

Invasive cancer types

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

It is the most common type of breast cancer that originates in the breast ducts and spreads to the surrounding breast tissues. It is of great importance to notice it in the early period as it carries the risk of jumping to lymph nodes and distant organs over time.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

It is another common type of breast cancer that starts in the milk glands and spreads to the surrounding tissue. This type requires careful follow-up as it can be difficult to detect with mammography.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This type, which progresses quite aggressively, manifests itself with redness, swelling, and increased temperature in the breast. It creates inflammation-like symptoms by blocking the lymph vessels. Early diagnosis and urgent treatment are of vital importance because it progresses rapidly.

What Causes Breast Cancer?

There is no single cause for the emergence of breast cancer; a combination of genetic factors, age, hormonal effects, and environmental conditions can trigger this process. The uncontrolled multiplication of breast cells leads to the development of tumor tissue over time.

The main factors predisposing to breast cancer are as follows:

Genetic predisposition: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer in both women and men. The risk rate is higher in people with a family history of breast cancer.

Age: The probability of developing breast cancer increases significantly in individuals over the age of 50. In men, it is usually seen between the ages of 60–70.

Unhealthy nutrition: A high-fat diet, low fiber intake, and the consumption of processed foods can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Obesity and inactivity: Excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to the disruption of hormonal balance and the multiplication of cancer cells.

Smoking and alcohol use: Toxins contained in nicotine and alcohol can pave the way for cancer by disrupting the cell structure in the breast tissue.

Exposure to radiation and chemicals: Especially long-term radiation effects can cause permanent damage to cell DNA.

Stress and hormonal imbalance: Being under constant stress or having high estrogen levels can also support cancer development.

Depending on these factors, unilateral swelling, pain, burning, or discomfort radiating to the back area may be observed in the breast. When such symptoms are noticed, a medical evaluation should be performed without losing time.

Since it is known that the risk of breast cancer increases with age, it is recommended that women, especially those over 40, have mammograms at regular intervals. Early diagnosis greatly reduces mortality rates and is the most critical factor determining treatment success.

What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer can progress without showing symptoms, especially in the early stage. However, over time, some changes that can be noticed in the breast tissue emerge. Careful observation of these changes plays a major role in the early diagnosis of the disease. Among the most common findings are a hard lump felt in the breast or armpit area, noticeable changes in the shape or size of the breast, and conditions such as thickening or retraction of the skin.

Additionally, bloody or clear discharge from the nipple, redness on the skin, surface changes resembling an orange peel, pain, or tenderness are also among the warning symptoms. Noticing these findings and having a specialist evaluation without losing time is vital for early diagnosis.

Symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• A hard, limited-movement lump noticed in the breast or armpit
• Distortion in the shape, size, or symmetry of the breast
• Bloody, transparent, or yellow-colored discharge coming from the nipple
• Retraction of the nipple inward or distortion of its appearance
• Noticing redness, crusting, wound formation on the skin, or a texture similar to an orange peel
• Enlargement or swelling of the axillary lymph nodes
• Pain in or around the breast, tenderness to touch
• Unexplained weight loss or constant fatigue

In advanced stages of breast cancer, symptoms become more prominent. In cases reaching the fourth stage, painful, hard lumps in the breast or armpit, as well as skin thickening, significant color changes, and intense discharge can be observed. When the disease spreads to other organs, systemic problems such as bone pain, shortness of breath, liver dysfunction, and exhaustion can also be added to the picture.

Lump in the Breast or Armpit

A hard lump noticed in the breast or armpit area is the most common and striking finding of breast cancer. These formations, which feel different from normal tissue, are usually painless. However, not every lump means cancer; nevertheless, medical evaluation should be performed when noticed.

Change in Breast Shape and Size

Observing a noticeable difference in the form or volume of the breast can also be a harbinger of the disease. In cases where one breast looks more sagging, swollen, or different in shape compared to the other, getting a check-up is important for early diagnosis.

Discharge from the Nipple

Discharges coming spontaneously from the nipple, especially those in bloody color, can also be a symptom of breast cancer. If this condition is seen in a single breast or if the discharge has become regular, a specialist check is absolutely necessary.

Deformity or Inward Collapse of the Nipple

When a sudden inward migration, change of direction, or deformity is noticed in the structure of the nipple, this situation should not be ignored. This change can be an indicator of abnormal cell growth in the breast duct.

Redness, Crusting, or Orange Peel Appearance on the Skin

Redness, thickening, wounds, scaling, or an appearance similar to orange peel occurring on the skin surface is also one of the findings of breast cancer. Such skin changes are frequently seen especially in inflammatory breast cancer cases.

Swelling or Lymph Node Enlargement in the Armpit

Cancer cells in the breast tissue can reach the lymph nodes in the armpit. In this case, a palpable swelling or tenderness may be felt in that area. Such a symptom may indicate that the cancer is showing spread.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Men

Although breast cancer is common in women, it can also be rarely seen in men. Symptoms emerging in men usually show similarities to those in women. Findings such as a hard lump in the chest area, discharge from the nipple, skin thickening, redness, or retraction of the nipple can also be observed in men.

Among the fundamental causes of this disease in men are genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, and advanced age. In most cases, it is diagnosed in men over the age of 60. Early detection greatly increases the success of the treatment process.

Where Is the Lump Usually Located in Breast Cancer?

The location of lumps in breast cancer is usually in the upper outer region of the breast. This part is close to the collarbone and the armpit, so it can reach the lymph nodes more easily. In approximately half of the cases (50–60%), the tumor emerges in this region.

Other placement areas are as follows:

• Upper inner quadrant (15%)
• Lower outer quadrant (10%)
• Lower inner quadrant (5%)
• Nipple and surrounding area (20%)

Depending on the location of the lumps, the sensation of pain or pressure may differ. For example, a lump in the left breast may cause pain radiating to the arm, while a formation in the right breast may cause a burning sensation. Lumps in the upper outer quadrant carry a risk of spread in the early period as they are closer to the lymph nodes. Therefore, it is important to examine this area regularly and not to neglect mammography checks.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination?

A breast self-examination is one of the most effective and easiest methods for early detection of the disease. Even if there are no apparent changes, a careful examination allows for the early detection of potential lumps.

By following the steps below regularly, important information about breast health can be gained:

• Stand in front of a mirror and look for differences in the symmetry, skin color, and surface of both breasts.
• Repeat the same check while raising your arms.
• Using the four fingers of your left hand, gently feel the right breast and armpit with circular motions, and then use your right hand for the left breast.
• Lightly press the nipple and surrounding area to check for any discharge.
• Repeat the examination while lying on your back; this position makes it easier to feel the tissue.

Any lump, hardness, retraction, or sensation of pain noticed during self-examination must be evaluated. The most appropriate timing for this practice is every month, preferably in the period following the end of menstruation. Thanks to regular examination, early-stage findings of breast cancer can be noticed more easily.

Stages and Characteristics of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is divided into different stages depending on the development process of the disease, and each stage varies according to the degree of spread. In the early stages, cancerous cells are limited only within the breast tissue, while in advanced stages, spread to surrounding tissues and distant organs can be seen. For this reason, the response to treatment is quite high in cases diagnosed in the early period.

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ):

At this stage, cancer cells have not yet moved outside the breast tissue. This means the tumor is localized and there is no metastasis. Thanks to early diagnosis, the treatment success rate at this stage is almost complete, and the mortality rate is quite low.

Stage I:

The size of the tumor is less than 2 centimeters, and usually, no spread to the lymph nodes is seen. In breast cancer cases detected during this period, the lifespan is high, and the probability of a positive response to treatment is great.

Stage II (A and B):

At this stage, the size of the tumor may have grown, or cancer cells have begun to spread to nearby lymph nodes. Patients may occasionally experience a burning sensation in the breast, pain radiating to the arm, or a feeling of pressure.

Stage III (A, B, and C):

At this stage, the cancer may have advanced to the tissues surrounding the breast, the skin surface, or the chest wall. The proximity of the tumor to the skin can lead to swelling, hardening in the breast, and pain reflecting to the back. This stage requires a more advanced evaluation and aggressive treatment.

Stage IV:

In this phase, considered the final stage, cancer cells have spread to distant organs such as the bone, lungs, and liver. Therefore, patients may experience symptoms such as constant pain in the breast, weakness, and general fatigue.

Pathological Evaluation

Pathological examination is of great importance in determining the stage of the disease. Data obtained through methods such as mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy are combined to evaluate the tumor type, size, area of spread, and its effect on the lymph nodes. This information plays a fundamental role in preparing the patient's treatment plan and determining the prognosis.

How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of breast cancer is made at the end of a comprehensive process involving various stages such as physical examination, imaging methods, laboratory tests, and tissue analysis. Since early diagnosis directly affects treatment success, regular screening and checks are very important.

Physical Examination

In the first stage, the physician evaluates abnormal appearances or structural changes in the breast. Specifically, conditions like pain, burning, retraction, or the feeling of a lump in the breast are carefully examined. Both breasts and the armpit area are checked by palpation, and additional investigations are requested if necessary.

Imaging Tests

Imaging procedures performed after the physical examination show the structure and location of potential lumps in the breast tissue in detail. The most frequently used tests are:

Mammography: This screening method, performed with low-dose radiation, can detect small lesions that are not noticed in the early period.

Ultrasonography: Helps determine whether lumps are fluid-filled or solid in structure.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Shows the internal structure of the breast tissue in detail and is quite useful, especially for individuals with dense tissue.

PET-CT: Used to understand whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Laboratory Tests

Measurement of certain blood values and specific tumor markers provides clues about the possibility of recurrence during follow-up and for monitoring while the disease is present. Some tumor markers, such as Ca 15-3, are more specific to breast diseases and are important in follow-up.

Biopsy

The most reliable way to make a definitive diagnosis is to take a tissue sample from the suspicious area. The biopsy result provides detailed information about the structure of the cells, the growth rate, and the degree of aggressiveness of the cancer. This investigation is the most critical step in determining the treatment method.

During the diagnostic process, breast cancer cases seen in men are evaluated with the same methods, as symptoms like pain or swelling follow a similar course regardless of gender.

Genetic Tests

Some types of breast cancer can occur as a result of genetic predisposition. In this case, mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 are investigated. These genes function in the DNA repair mechanism, and when damaged, they can cause cells to multiply uncontrollably.

• Genetic tests are important for the following reasons:
• Helps determine hereditary risks.
• Enables early precautions to be taken.
• Allows for the creation of protective screening plans for family members.
• The effect of these genes can also be observed in a portion of breast cancer cases seen in men.

Detecting a BRCA mutation does not necessarily mean the person has cancer; however, risk management can be provided through regular checks, mammography, and ultrasound follow-ups. It is recommended that individuals with a family history of breast cancer undergo genetic testing, especially if they notice findings like pain or shape changes in the breast.

Breast Cancer Treatment

The treatment method to be applied in breast cancer is determined according to the type of disease, its state of spread, and its stage. The success rate is quite high in cases diagnosed at an early stage. Tumor size, hormone sensitivity, genetic factors, and the patient's general health status are taken into consideration in treatment planning. Similar treatment approaches are valid for breast cancer seen in men. Surgery and oncology play a fundamental role at the center of the treatment of the disease.

The primary methods in breast cancer treatment are as follows:

• Surgical intervention
• Oncological treatment steps (Chemotherapy (drug treatment), hormone therapy, targeted smart drug therapies.)
• Radiotherapy (radiation treatment)

Surgical treatment in breast cancer can be applied in different ways depending on the course of the disease. In some cases, only the tumor tissue is removed, while in more advanced stages, the entire breast tissue may be taken. These two surgical approaches are generally defined as “breast-conserving surgery” and “mastectomy.”

Prior to surgery, the structure of the lumps in the breast is examined in detail using imaging methods such as ultrasound and mammography. In this way, the location, size, and relationship of the tumor with surrounding tissues are clearly determined. Surgical planning is carefully made, especially if there are symptoms like a burning sensation in the breast, pain radiating to the arm, or deformity.

Who is Surgical Treatment Applied To?

In cases diagnosed at an early stage, where the tumor is small and spread has not yet begun, breast-conserving surgery is generally preferred. This method both preserves the patient's breast integrity and has a high success rate.

In contrast, mastectomy may need to be applied in advanced stages of cancer or in cases where multiple foci are present. Along with developing techniques, reconstruction (breast repair) can also be performed after such surgical procedures.

High treatment success is possible through early diagnosis and a personally planned treatment. When the appropriate method is selected, the mortality rate related to breast cancer can be greatly reduced.

Surgical Procedures for the Armpit

The status of the lymph nodes in breast cancer is one of the most important factors in evaluating the spread of the disease. For this reason, examining the lymph nodes in the armpit area is of critical importance in determining the treatment plan.

The aim during armpit surgery is both to clarify the stage of the disease and to prevent unnecessary tissue loss. Particularly in individuals with complaints such as pain in the breast, swelling in the armpit, or an ache radiating to the arm, lymph node involvement is carefully examined.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB)

In breast cancer surgery, the status of the lymph in the armpit is important for determining the treatment; therefore, armpit sampling and/or dissection must be performed during surgery. Sentinel lymph node sampling means labeling and sampling the sentinel lymph node in the armpit. This procedure, performed by injecting a radioactive substance or a special dye into the first lymph node in the armpit before or during surgery, is applied to understand the spread of cancer. If no cancer cells are found in this “sentry” lymph node, there is no need to remove other lymph nodes. Since this method prevents unnecessary lymph tissue loss, it is widely preferred today.

Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

In advanced-stage patients, when involvement is detected in the lymph nodes, an axillary dissection is performed. With this operation, the affected lymph nodes are removed, reducing the risk of the disease spreading to the body. Today, thanks to minimal invasive surgical techniques, this process has become more comfortable and the recovery period has also shortened.

Treatment Methods

Following the surgical procedure, various complementary treatments are applied according to the status of the disease. These include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies.

Chemotherapy: This is a systemic treatment performed with drugs to stop the growth of or destroy cancer cells.

Radiotherapy: Radiation is used to destroy microscopic cancer cells remaining after surgery.

Hormone Therapy: Applied in hormone receptor-positive tumors to block the effects of hormones on the cancer.

Targeted Therapy: Performed with drugs that target the specific structures of cancer cells and generally have fewer side effects.

The purpose of these treatments is not only to eliminate the tumor but also to preserve the patient's quality of life. Although breast cancer is seen more rarely in men, positive results can be obtained with similar treatment methods.

Surgical Intervention and Risk Assessment

Prior to surgery, the structure, location, and spread status of the tumor are analyzed with imaging methods. This evaluation affects both treatment success and the risk of complications. If symptoms like pain, burning, or shape changes in the breast are present, planning is done meticulously.

While performing risk analysis, factors such as the stage of the tumor, genetic factors, hormone sensitivity, and the age of the patient are taken into account.

Risk Management

The most effective way to reduce mortality rates related to breast cancer is to be aware of risk factors and not to neglect regular checks. It is very important for individuals with a family history of breast cancer or symptoms like pain or swelling in the breast to have an early evaluation.

Although the rate of breast cancer in men is low, individuals with genetic predisposition or risk factors also need to undergo periodic checks.

What are the Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer?

The most effective way to prevent breast cancer is regular screenings that enable early diagnosis. For this reason, it is of vital importance to have mammography and ultrasonography at certain intervals. In addition, precautions that a person can apply themselves also reduce the risk of disease.

• Protective approaches include:
• Having regular mammography and ultrasound checks
• Performing a monthly breast self-examination
• Eating healthy and maintaining an ideal weight
• Exercising regularly
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Not using tobacco
• Applying hormone treatments only under physician control

These precautions ensure that abnormalities that may occur in the breast are noticed in the early period. When findings such as pain, burning, swelling, or shape changes in the breast are seen, a specialist evaluation should be sought without losing time.

Early diagnosis is the strongest step in extending lifespan and increasing treatment success.

What Are Breast Cancer Treatment Prices?

The cost of breast cancer treatment may vary depending on the stage of the disease, the treatment method applied, the general health status of the patient, and the medical technologies used. Methods such as surgical operation, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy can be applied during the treatment process. The type and combination of these methods play a decisive role in the total treatment fee.

In addition, diagnostic tests planned specifically for the patient, imaging methods, pathological examinations, duration of hospital stay, and post-treatment follow-up processes are also important factors affecting the cost. Acting with a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment process—that is, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists working together—both increases the success rate and requires personalized planning.

To reach the most accurate and up-to-date information about breast cancer treatment fees, the most reliable method would be to contact the center where the application will be performed directly. Thus, a cost evaluation suitable for the patient's needs and treatment plan can be made.

Cities Where We Offer Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer treatment is a process in which extremely successful results can be obtained when carried out with the support of modern medical equipment and experienced specialist teams. Centers serving in this field provide comprehensive and professional health services not only in the cities where they are located but also to patients coming from surrounding provinces.

The treatment process is meticulously organized to include diagnosis, surgical planning, drug treatment, radiotherapy, and follow-up periods starting from the patient's first examination. Each stage is individualized according to the patient's general health status, tumor characteristics, and response to treatment.

Patients coming from nearby provinces can also benefit from care, consultancy, and treatment opportunities at the same standards. Early diagnosis, regular checks, and specialist support are of great importance in the process of fighting breast cancer. To create a personalized treatment plan and get detailed information, contacting centers specializing in the field of oncology would be a correct step.