Breast Condition Explained: Mammary Paget's Disease
Mammary Paget's Disease is a rare type of breast cancer that primarily affects the skin of the nipple and areola. This uncommon condition is often associated with underlying breast cancer, particularly ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive breast cancer [1][3][5].
Symptoms of Mammary Paget's Disease can include itching or burning, redness and inflammation, flaky or scaly skin, discharge, and changes in nipple shape [1]. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
A definitive diagnosis is usually made through a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken from the nipple area and examined under a microscope. Histological examination reveals that Paget cells, large atypical cells found in the epidermis of the nipple, are a characteristic of Mammary Paget's Disease. Immunohistochemistry tests may be used to identify specific markers associated with the disease [1][3][5].
Surgery is the mainstay treatment for Mammary Paget's Disease. It may include mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), which is common especially if there is an associated underlying breast cancer, or breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) if the disease and cancer are localized [1][5]. Wide Local Excision, a surgical intervention, involves removing the affected nipple and surrounding tissue while preserving as much breast tissue as possible.
Radiation therapy may be used post-surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It is often used after breast-conserving surgery or may be used post-mastectomy if indicated [1][5].
Systemic treatments are selected based on tumor molecular subtype. Chemotherapy is used for invasive or advanced disease, while hormonal (endocrine) therapy is recommended if the cancer expresses hormone receptors. Targeted therapy such as HER2-targeted agents is used if the tumor is HER2-positive [1][3][5].
Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with mammary Paget's disease is vital for early detection and intervention. A family history of breast cancer, a history of benign breast disease, and being over the age of 50 can increase the risk of developing Mammary Paget's Disease [1][5].
In rare cases involving extensive local disease or advanced stages, additional therapies or clinical trials might be considered, but these are less well established specifically for Paget’s disease [2][4].
The 5-year survival rate for patients with localized Mammary Paget's Disease can be as high as 90%. This process can occur through direct extension from an underlying breast tumor or in situ carcinoma.
In conclusion, treatment for Mammary Paget's Disease is multidisciplinary, involving surgical excision followed by adjuvant radiation or systemic therapy to address both the skin changes and underlying breast cancer. Early detection and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for patients with this rare form of breast cancer.
- Science plays a crucial role in understanding and diagnosing rare conditions like Mammary Paget's Disease, a type of breast cancer that impacts the skin of the nipple and areola.
- Beyond breast cancer, other medical-conditions such as skin-care issues, neurological-disorders, and women's-health concerns like menopause require dedicated attention in the realm of health-and-wellness.
- Mammography, biopsy, and immunohistochemistry tests are among the diagnostic tools used to identify breast-cancer, including the rare Mammary Paget's Disease.
- Healthcare professionals employ a variety of treatment methods for breast-cancer patients, including surgery, radiation therapy, systemic treatments, and targeted therapies.
- Awareness of risk factors, including family history, age, and benign breast-disease, is essential in the prevention and early detection of certainbreast-cancers, like Mammary Paget's Disease.
