How to detect breast cancer

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor formed by the uncontrolled proliferation of breast epithelial tissue under the action of multiple carcinogenic factors. Breast cancer can generally be detected and diagnosed through physical examination, imaging examination, tissue biopsy, tumor marker examination, immunohistochemistry examination and other examination items. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will use visual examination and palpation to determine whether there are any abnormalities in the breasts, such as breast lumps, breast skin changes, nipple discharge, etc.

2. Imaging examination: including mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. Mammography can be used to observe calcifications, especially small calcifications. Ultrasound can be used to determine the nature of breast lumps and can be used as the preferred imaging examination for breast cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging can determine the stage of breast cancer and has advantages in detecting small lesions and multiple lesions.

3. Tissue biopsy: If breast cancer is suspected but imaging examinations cannot fully confirm the diagnosis, the tumor needs to be removed together with the surrounding breast tissue, and then a pathological examination is performed.

4. Tumor marker examination: Common tests include serum cancer antigen 15-3, serum carcinoembryonic antigen, serum cancer antigen 125, etc. If there is a significant increase, it is necessary to consider whether it is related to breast cancer.

5. Immunohistochemistry examination: This examination can help doctors determine the molecular type of breast cancer and provide a basis for subsequent treatment.

After the above examinations have clarified the specific situation of breast cancer, it is necessary to receive individualized treatment from a doctor, such as surgical treatment, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, etc.