Additional Types of Breast Cancer

Breast Sarcoma 

This is a very rare form of breast cancer, accounting for only one percent of all breast cancers. With most breast cancers, the cancer forms inside the lobes or the milk ducts. With this disease, the tumor forms in the connective or fibrous tissue that surrounds the lobes or ducts. Surgery followed by radiation is often recommended. 

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

IBC is an aggressive form of cancer that has spread to the skin of the breast. The skin becomes inflamed — red, swollen, warm to the touch and very sore. The disease is caused by invasive cancer cells that spread from the milk ducts into the skin of the breast, where they block the lymph vessels. This causes a painful build-up of lymphatic fluid in the breast. IBC progresses rapidly and is often at an advanced stage when it is diagnosed. Treatment may be chemotherapy followed by surgery and radiation.

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)

LCIS is technically not cancer, but it may increase your risk of getting breast cancer. The disease is caused by an overgrowth of the cells that line the milk ducts or the lobules. Because of the increased risk, women with LCIS should be screened frequently for breast cancer. 

Paget’s Disease of the Nipple

This is a rare form of cancer in which cancer cells are found in or around the nipple. The nipple and the areola (the darker circle of skin around the nipple) may itch or burn, and may also ooze or bleed. Surgery followed by radiation is the standard treatment. 

Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast

This is a large, bulky tumor in the breast that may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). It tends to grow quickly and may spread to other parts of the body. These tumors are most common in women in their 40s. Surgery to remove the tumor is the usual treatment.