What are the early symptoms of occult breast cancer?

Feb 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Xiaopeng

Introduction

In general, early symptoms of occult breast cancer include breast lumps, nipple discharge, breast pain, changes in the nipple, and enlarged axillary lymph nodes. For patients with occult breast cancer, surgical treatment is the preferred option for those diagnosed at an early stage. Patients should go to a正规 medical institution and consult a qualified physician to undergo surgery for removal of the lesion.

Generally, early symptoms of occult breast cancer include breast lumps, nipple discharge, breast pain, changes in the nipple, and enlarged axillary lymph nodes. The details are as follows:

1. Breast lump

One of the most common early signs of breast cancer is a breast lump. These lumps are usually painless and may sometimes be too small to be felt. The texture and shape of the lump may differ from that of normal breast tissue.

2. Nipple discharge

Occult breast cancer can cause nipple discharge, which may be clear, yellow, bloody, or purulent. This may occur because cancer cells affect the normal drainage function of the mammary ducts.

3. Breast pain

In some cases of occult breast cancer, patients may experience breast pain or discomfort. However, breast pain is not necessarily caused solely by breast cancer; many other conditions and factors can also lead to breast pain.

4. Nipple changes

Changes in the nipple may also be an early sign of occult breast cancer. Such changes may include wrinkling, retraction (inward pulling), deviation, or ulceration of the nipple.

5. Enlarged axillary lymph nodes

Breast cancer often causes enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes. You may notice that the lymph nodes in the armpit area have increased in size, feel hard, or become tender upon touch.

For patients diagnosed with occult breast cancer, surgical treatment is the preferred option, especially for those in the early stages of the disease. Patients should go to a qualified medical institution and consult a specialist surgeon to remove the tumor.

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