Breast Cancer

A breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that develops from cells in the breast. The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass; however, most breast lumps are benign (noncancerous). Other physical signs include a generalized swelling of part of a breast (even if no distinct lump is felt), skin irritation or dimpling, nipple pain or retraction (turning inward), redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin, or a spontaneous discharge other than breast milk. Early detection of malignant tumors, preferably before symptoms are present, is very important because the cancer can spread if not treated at its earliest stages.