Question

A 40 year old woman presents for the evaluation of a left sided breast lump. She does have a strong positive family history, with her mother and one older sister both have had breast cancer. Physical examination is notable for a 2-cm lump in her left breast. A biopsy shows invasive ductal carcinoma. The tumor is positive for estrogen receptor expression HER2 gene amplification.

1. What genetics factors (genes) may have been involved in the patient's risk for developing breast cancer.
2. What are the two major subtypes of breast cancer?
3. Describe the distinction between invasive and carcinoma in situ
4. How is our knowledge of the tumor receptors used in treating breast cancer?
5. What are the best examinations for detecting breast cancer?

Answer 1

Two type of genes which is associated with mutation this can cause beeast cancer.these are BRCA1 and BRCA2.Normal function of these cells are to repair damaged cell in breast and other reproductive organs.

Two type of major breast cancers are iinvasive ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ.

cancer cells are formed inside the milk ducts and it is these small lobules break down and spread into nearby breast tissue .the common place to affect this type is at lymphnodes at under arm area.this type has high risk as it spreads.

Carcinoma at situ means it orginates in the milk ducts itself but not spreads to other part.so it has low risk.

HER2 are the receptors which used to develop and help to grow cells .this is taken by the patholgist tgrogh biopsy or surgery.

1.Breast self examinattion

2.mammogram.