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Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

The signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm that persists through the menstrual cycle
  • A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea
  • A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast
  • A blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from the nipple
  • A change in the feel or appearance of the skin on the breast or nipple (dimpled, puckered, scaly, or inflamed)
  • Redness of the skin on the breast or nipple
  • An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast
  • A marble-like hardened area under the skin

These changes may be found during a breast self-exam.

Recommended Related to Breast Cancer

Avastin Nixed for Breast Cancer Treatment

The FDA has ruled that the cancer drug Avastin is no longer approved for treating advanced breast cancer -- but can still be used for other cancers. In a news release, the FDA stated that Avastin "has not been shown to be safe and effective" for treating breast cancer, but that Avastin would stay on the market as an FDA-approved treatment for certain types of colon, lung, kidney, and brain cancer. The FDA states that Avastin's risks include severe high blood pressure; bleeding;...

Read the Avastin Nixed for Breast Cancer Treatment article > >

Medical organizations don't agree on the recommendation for breast self-exams, which is an option for women starting in their 20s. Doctors should discuss the benefits and limitations of breast self-exam with their patients.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Arnold Wax, MD on June 26, 2012
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