Cancer occurs when cells grow in ways they aren't supposed to within breast tissue. Changes in cells that carry DNA (genes) cause tumors to develop. Breast cancer types include:
- Ductal carcinoma: Cancer in the tubes (ducts) that move milk through the breast.
- Inflammatory breast cancer: Cancer that grows in lymph vessels (tiny structures that carry infection-fighting fluid) in the breast skin.
- Lobular carcinoma: Cancer in the small separate parts of the breast that produce milk (lobules).
- Paget's disease of the breast: Cancer that grows in the nipple and its surrounding skin.
Our experts diagnose breast cancer with certain tests and screenings. As part of our prevention and screening services, we offer mammography and other routine cancer screenings. We also recommend a clinical breast exam where we feel for lumps and other changes in the breasts and armpits.
We use additional tools to see if cancer is present and if it has spread. These diagnostic tests include:
- Blood chemistry tests
- Breast biopsy
- Core needle biopsy
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy
- Lymph node biopsy
- Surgical biopsy
- Imaging tests
If our experts confirm that breast cancer is present, we may do extra tests to learn more about the cancer. These additional tests may include:
- Genetic testing
- HER2 test
- Hormone receptor tests
Specialists use these diagnostic tests to see whether breast cancer has spread (staging). We use staging to design a personalized treatment plan for the best health outcomes.
Sentara experts develop a tailored breast cancer treatment plan based on your age, breast cancer type and overall health. Cancer treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Surgery
- Lumpectomy
- Mastectomy
- Targeted therapy
Our experts and partners also research new ways to treat cancer. Please read about our work at Sentara Health Research Center.