Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the ductal or lobular epithelium of the breast. In its early stages, it often presents no obvious symptoms, making it easy to overlook. If diagnosis is delayed, cancer cells may metastasize to lymph nodes, bones, or lungs, worsening the condition and even threatening life. Therefore, scientific screening and accurate diagnostic methods are directly related to patients’ survival prospects and quality of life.

Diagnostic Basis for Breast Cancer

1. Physical Examination and Symptom Recognition
Doctors first perform visual and palpation exams to assess the breast, checking for lumps, nipple retraction, peau d’orange changes, or other abnormalities. Lymph nodes in the axillary and supraclavicular regions are also examined. While not a substitute for imaging, physical exams provide important initial clues.

2. Mammography (X-ray)
Mammography is the most widely used imaging tool for breast cancer screening. It can clearly show calcifications, tumors, and their margins. It is suitable for annual exams in women over 40. Its sensitivity is slightly lower in dense breasts or younger patients, requiring supplementary tests.

3. Ultrasound Examination
Breast ultrasound can clearly distinguish cystic from solid lesions, making it especially useful for young women or those with dense breast tissue. This method is radiation-free, safe, and can guide further biopsy of suspicious nodules.

4. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Breast MRI is suitable for cases with unclear tumor boundaries, bilateral lesions, or preoperative assessment of metastasis. It has high sensitivity, can detect small early lesions, and is useful for screening high-risk hereditary breast cancer groups.

5. Biopsy and Pathology
When imaging shows suspicious lesions, fine-needle or core needle biopsy is performed to confirm malignancy and determine histological type and grade. Immunohistochemistry can further assess hormone receptor status and HER2 expression, providing guidance for treatment planning.

6. Molecular Subtyping
During diagnosis, it is necessary to determine the molecular subtype of breast cancer (e.g., Luminal A/B, HER2-positive, Triple-negative). Different subtypes correspond to distinct treatment strategies, significantly affecting prognosis and individualized treatment plans.

7. Systemic Examination to Exclude Metastasis
After confirming breast cancer, systemic evaluations such as chest CT, bone scan, and liver ultrasound are performed to check for distant metastasis. This step is critical for accurate staging and assessing treatment feasibility.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of breast cancer relies on the combined application of multiple methods. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that physical exams and screenings should not be overlooked. Timely medical consultation and accurate evaluation are key to improving cure rates and reducing recurrence risks.