31st December 2024

Presentation of breast cancer

Most cases of breast cancer in the UK are detected by national screening.

The most common symptomatic presentation is with a self-detected breast lump. Other presenting symptoms include breast thickening, skin changes, nipple changes, nipple discharge, and a lump in the axilla. Breast pain is a less common presenting symptom but nevertheless warrants attention, particularly if persistent.

Paget’s disease of the breast classically presents with an eczema-like rash affecting the nipple and areola.

In inflammatory breast cancer, local invasion along lymphatic ducts gives rise to the hallmark peau d’orange appearance of the oedematous, erythematous breast.