Recurrent Breast Cancer

If breast cancer recur after initial treatment then this condition is known as recurrent breast cancer. This is usually the result of evaded cancer cells that survived after initial treatment. These cells can proliferate and cause recurrent breast cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms depends upon the site where the recurrence have occurred.

In case of local recurrence symptoms presents as new lumps in breast, changes in the skin of breast, nipple discharge, skin inflammation.
In case of regional recurrence symptoms presents as presence of swelling which may be under the arm, near collar bone or in the neck.
In case of distant (metastasis) recurrence symptoms presents as long standing and worsened hip or back pain, chronic cough, problematic breathing, decrease appetite, seizures, severe headache.

Causes

Main cause of recurrent breast cancer is the evasion of previous breast cancer cells from the chemo, radiation, or hormonal therapy. They can be dormant for years without causing any symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other tests include:

Imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, PET
Biopsy of a sample tissue for laboratory diagnosis

Treatment

Treatment options include:

If patient have local recurrence then treatment involve operation and radiation therapy
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Hormonal therapy
Targeted drug therapy
Immunotherapy

Recurrent Breast Cancer