Inflammatory breast cancer

Description

A form of breast cancer that develops quickly, causing breast swelling and skin changes.

Overview

Inflammatory breast cancer happens when cancer cells break away from a cancer in the breast tissue. The cells invade lymphatic vessels in the skin covering the breast.

Symptoms

Symptoms include a breast that becomes swollen, tender and warm. Symptoms worsen quickly. The skin may become dimpled and change in color. It might look red, purple or bruised.

Treatments

Treatment often includes chemotherapy, surgery and radiation. Other treatments include hormone therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.