Breast Cancers

01 — Breast Cancer

Overview

Breast cancer develops in the cells of the breast and can affect women and, less commonly, men. It includes several different subtypes, and each may behave differently and require a different treatment strategy.

Early detection, accurate diagnosis and appropriate staging are important in planning care. Medical oncology may form part of treatment alongside surgery and radiation therapy, depending on the individual diagnosis.

  • Who it affectsWomen and, less commonly, men
  • SubtypesSeveral, each may behave differently
  • CareMedical oncology alongside surgery and radiation

02 — Breast Cancer

Common Signs & Symptoms

  • 01A new lump or thickened area in the breast or under the arm
  • 02Change in breast size, shape or appearance
  • 03Nipple changes or unusual discharge
  • 04Changes in the skin of the breast, nipple or areola
  • 05Persistent or unusual breast changes that do not resolve

These signs do not always mean cancer, but any new or persistent change should be assessed by a doctor.

03 — Breast Cancer

Diagnosis & Staging

Assessment may include a clinical examination and breast imaging such as mammography or ultrasound, followed by a biopsy when required. Pathology helps confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of breast cancer. Where appropriate, biomarker and receptor testing can provide information that influences treatment selection. Additional investigations may be recommended to assess the stage and determine whether the cancer has spread.

  1. 1

    Clinical examination & imaging

    A clinical examination and breast imaging such as mammography or ultrasound.

  2. 2

    Biopsy

    Carried out when required to obtain a tissue sample.

  3. 3

    Pathology

    Helps confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of breast cancer.

  4. 4

    Biomarker & receptor testing

    Where appropriate, provides information that influences treatment selection.

  5. 5

    Staging investigations

    Additional investigations to assess the stage and whether the cancer has spread.

04 — Breast Cancer

Treatment Options

Treatment can involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy and systemic medical treatments. Depending on the cancer subtype and stage, systemic treatment may include chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Some treatments may be given before surgery, while others may be used after surgery or for advanced disease.

Surgery

Part of a combined treatment plan, depending on the diagnosis.

Radiation therapy

Used alongside other treatments where appropriate.

Systemic treatments

  • Chemotherapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Targeted therapy
  • Immunotherapy

When treatments may be given

  • Before surgery
  • After surgery
  • For advanced disease

The final plan is selected according to the patient’s diagnosis, tumour characteristics and overall health.

Dr. Pranay Girdhari Taori
Dr. Pranay Girdhari TaoriSpecialist Medical Oncologist

05 — Breast Cancer

Dr. Taori’s Approach

Dr. Pranay Girdhari Taori has specialist expertise in breast oncology and has been actively involved in breast cancer awareness, academic discussions and multidisciplinary cancer care. His approach begins with understanding the diagnosis, stage and relevant tumour characteristics before considering medical treatment. He coordinates with the wider cancer team when surgery, radiation or other specialist input is required. The aim is to provide a clear and appropriately individualised oncology treatment plan.

  • Understands the diagnosis, stage and tumour characteristics first
  • Coordinates with the wider cancer team when needed
  • Provides a clear, individualised treatment plan

06 — Breast Cancer

Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or need an oncology opinion, a specialist consultation can help clarify your diagnosis and available treatment options. Dr. Taori can review the clinical information and help determine the appropriate medical oncology approach as part of your wider cancer care.