Quick Case: Carcinoma of Breast

Abstract

Any lump in the chest or axilla should be examined properly. Especially in females, breast examination is a must when an axillary lump is found. Even if tests are found negative for anything, regular screening is a must. All females above 40 years of age should be subjected to mammography at least once.

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor (a collection of cancer cells) arising from the cells of the breast. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. There are many different types of breast cancer. Breast cancer is diagnosed with physician and self-examination of the breasts, mammography, ultrasound testing, and biopsy. Treatment of breast cancer depends on the type of cancer and its stage (the extent of spread in the body).

Case Report

A 42 year old patient presented with lump in axillary region.

Examination

On Examination there mild tenderness over lump:

  • Mobile lump
  • No fever

Investigation

Patient was given a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory for 5 days. On follow-up, lump mildly regressed in size.

  • Surgical reference was done
  • Asked for ultrasound s/o abscess
  • Surgeon decided to do excision biopsy

Management and Follow-Up

Result: Intraductal Carcinoma of breast; Patient was then referred to Oncology Surgeon for extensive oncology work to be done.

Findings: Positive nodes in axillary, rest of the reports are normal

Surgery: Modified Radical Mastectomy done.

Discussion

Total time from first visit to surgery was 20 days. I know I have done nothing great, but want convey a message that one has to be watchful for big things in routine cough and cold opd.

About The Author

Dr. Vachharajani is an experienced practicing family physician in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, with a special interest in obesity and lifestyle-related disorders. With a genuine passion and enthusiasm for healthcare information technology (HIT), he has championed the cause of using HIT in day-to-day clinical practice. In addition to his, MBBS, he holds a post-graduate certificate in environmental and occupational health (PGDMCH).

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