Inflammatory breast cancer

What is inflammatory breast cancer?

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare, but aggressive, form of breast cancer in which the cancer cells block the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast.  It is called ‘inflammatory’ as the breast  often looks red and swollen , or ‘inflamed’.  It tends to be diagnosed in younger women compared to non-IBC breast cancer.

What are the symptoms of IBC?

Symptoms of IBC may include redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump in the breast. The redness and warmth are caused by cancer cells blocking the lymph vessels in the skin. The skin of the breast may also appear pink, reddish purple, or bruised. The skin may also have ridges or appear pitted, like the skin of an orange (called peau d'orange), which is caused by a build-up of fluid and edema (swelling) in the breast.

Other symptoms include heaviness, burning, aching, increase in breast size, tenderness, or a nipple that is inverted (facing inward). These symptoms usually develop quickly – over a period of weeks or months. Swollen lymph nodes may also be present under the arm, above the collarbone, or in both places. However, it is important to note that these symptoms may also be signs of other conditions such as infection, injury, or other types of cancer.

For more information on IBC please go to: www.ibcresearch.org or www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/IBC