Do You Know the Uncommon Signs of Breast Cancer?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it's important to maintain that awareness all year long.

Knowing the not-so-known symptoms can be lifesaving when it comes to this often-fast-growing cancer.

When you think of breast cancer symptoms, what comes first in your mind?

Your answer is likely a lump. While it’s the most well-known indicator, it’s not the only one.

“There are several uncommon symptoms which, if recognized early, can lead to prompt diagnosis and increased chances of successful treatment,” explains Lisa Sheppard, MD, a radiologist and Director at PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology. “Unfortunately, when ignored, that may not be the outcome. So be sure to read on to learn about the warning signs, and if you are experiencing any of them, immediately see your doctor.”

Seven Uncommon, Not-to-be-Ignored Breast Cancer Symptoms

Uncommon Symptom #1: Change in Breast Size or Shape

Typically, each breast is a little different in size and shape. They may also change in appearance during breastfeeding and menstruation. However, if one breast changes in size, flattens, swells, or droops unexpectedly, this could be a sign of breast cancer.

Changes that should not be ignored include:

• A thick area that feels denser than the rest of the breast and does not go away or worsen.
• A dimple or indentation that does not go away.
• Enlarged veins on the breast or near the collarbone that are not caused by weight gain, breastfeeding, or Mondor’s disease – a rare, benign breast condition that causes vein inflammation under the skin of the breast or chest wall.

Uncommon Symptom #2: Changes in Skin Texture

A change in the texture of the skin on the breast may appear as a thickening or pitting of the skin, giving it an orange peel-like appearance known as “peau d’orange.” Peau d'orange is a sign of Inflammatory Breast Cancer, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. This cancer blocks the flow of lymph in the breast, causing swelling without an obvious hard lump. The swelling causes hair follicles to appear like small dimples, hence the condition’s name.

Uncommon Symptom #3: Persistent Itching or Warmth

Persistent itching or a sensation of warmth that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter treatments can also be a sign of Inflammatory Breast Cancer. It can also cause the breast to become red, warm, and itchy. The breast skin may also appear pink, reddish purple, or bruised. Inflammatory Breast Cancer is aggressive, so be sure to see your doctor immediately if you have these symptoms outside of developing breasts, breastfeeding or eczema.

Uncommon Symptom #4: Nipple Changes

Changes in the appearance or sensation of the nipple can be cancer indicators. Symptoms can include:

• Nipple inversion. While nipple retraction can be normal, new inversion, occurring only in one breast, or where the nipple does not come out on stimulation can be a concerning sign.
• Scaling or crustiness not related to breastfeeding or eczema. If skin remedies don't relieve this, it could be a sign of “Paget’s Disease.” This breast cancer occurs when cancer cells spread inside the breast and live in the nipple, creating a sore, scab-like red or white crusted surface that does not go away.
• Thickening of the nipple or areola. While this is normal during puberty and pregnancy, when unrelated to that, it’s another symptom requiring attention.
• Nipple discharge. This is particularly concerning if the discharge is bloody or occurs when not related to developing breasts, infection, cysts, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Uncommon Symptom #5: Breast Skin Sores

Breast cancer sometimes builds up, breaking down the skin and forming an open wound. This is a sign of advanced disease. Infection of the wound may cause a bad smell and/or leakage – a symptom that requires immediate attention.

Uncommon Symptom #6: Pain in the Breast or Chest Area

Breast pain is not commonly associated with breast cancer, but it can be a symptom, particularly if the pain is persistent and not related to menstruation. The pain can feel like a sharp stabbing sensation or a persistent ache. Breast cancer-related pain can also occur in the chest wall or extend to the underarm area.

Uncommon Symptom #7: Swelling or Lump in the Armpit

Swelling or lumps in the armpit may be caused by the spread of cancer cells from the breast to the lymph nodes under the arm. Persistent swelling or lumps should be checked by a healthcare professional.

“Breast cancer is one of the most curable cancers – especially when diagnosed early,” Dr. Sheppard concludes. “Monthly self-exams – along with being on the lookout for lumps and any of the uncommon symptoms listed above … and addressing them early – are key to positive outcomes and a cure.”

For more information or to schedule a mammogram, visit PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology at imagecarecenters.com.