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Pathology
Gynaecology (13)
Breast (16)
Oncology (18)
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare.
The anatomy of the human female breast contains various tissues and structures. One of the primary functions of the breast is milk production. Learn about breast ducts, muscles, and blood vessels in this slide show from the Mayo Clinic.
After a breast cancer diagnosis, you'll be faced with a difficult and emotional decision: Do you choose complete removal of your breast (mastectomy) or removal of only the tumor (lumpectomy) followed by radiation therapy? The information contained in this guide is intended to help you make this important decision.
Adjuvant therapy for breast cancer is the use of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy to help destroy any cancer cells that may be remaining in your body after breast surgery. The aim of adjuvant therapy is to reduce the risk of breast cancer from returning.
Breast cancer is classified from stage 0 (zero) to stage IV (four). The stages are determined by a sample of breast tissue, as well as examination of tissue from the lymph nodes under your arm. The purpose of staging is to estimate the chances of survival of at least five years after diagnosis. Learn about breast cancer staging with this slide show from the Mayo Clinic.