Chest CT Appearances

Breast Cancer CT Findings

• Well-defined nodules in breast
• Spiculated and irregular margin
• Irregular shape
• Rim enhancement
• Skin thickening or ulceration

Other Information About Breast Cancer

Etiology:

• The cause of breast cancer is unknown
• Patients with the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are 2-3 times more likely to develop breast cancer

Epidemiology:

• Almost exclusively occurs in females but can occur in males
• Typically presents after age 40

Presentation:

• Palpable mass in the breast or underarm
• Change in appearance of breast, such as size, shape, color or texture
• Dimpled or scaly skin on the breast
• Nipple retraction
• Nipple discharge, such as blood (not breast milk)

Prognosis:

• The 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is:
  • Localized: >99%
  • Regional: 87%
  • Distant: 32%
  • All SEER stages combined: 91%

Related Pearls: Breast Cancer