Metaplastic breast cancer (metaplastic carcinoma of the breast) is a very uncommon punch in of breast cancer.
This article discusses the symptoms and diagnosis of metaplastic breast cancer.
It also covers treatment options and how to cope with a diagnosis.
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For others, the symptoms are essentially the same as for other types of breast cancer.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
No two breast cancers are alikeeven tumors that are diagnosed as metaplastic breast cancer.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Surgery
Alumpectomyormastectomyis the most definitive treatment.
Hormone Therapy
For tumors that are estrogen-receptor and/or progesterone-receptor-positive, hormonal therapy is often used.
For premenopausal women, the medicationtamoxifenis most often used.
This drug works by binding to estrogen receptors on breast cancer cells so that the hormone can’t.
These medications are not, however, effective for tumors that are HER2-negative.
That said, chemotherapy does not appear to be as effective for metaplastic breast cancer.
However, the inclusion of mTOR inhibitors is not standard treatment for metaplastic breast cancer.
At the present time, this would only be done in the context of a clinical trial.
The five-year survival rate for people with metaplastic breast cancer is about 55%.
Many people find it helpful to participate in general breast cancer support groups and support communities as well.
After your diagnosis, you may find it disconcerting that less is known about this key in of cancer.
Summary
Metaplastic breast cancer is a rare form of invasive ductal cancer.
The fast-growing cancer starts in the milk ducts and moves into other areas of the breast.
It can be diagnosed through imaging such as mammography or ultrasound and a breast biopsy.
Clinical trials may also provide options for treatments.
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MD Anderson Cancer Center.Metaplastic Breast Cancer.
