Breast Cancer
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Read moreConcerns - Breast Cancer
A Lump in the Breast
Breast lumps, though often alarming, are a common concern among women. Understanding what they are, what may cause them, and how they are treated is crucial for peace of mind and effective management. Birmingham Breast Group specialises in addressing breast health concerns, offering comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options for patients with breast lumps.
About This Concern
Breast lumps are abnormal growths or swellings that develop within breast tissue. They can vary in size, shape, and texture and may be felt as a distinct mass or lump during self-examination or clinical examination. While not all breast lumps are cancerous, any new lump or change in the breast should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly.
Several factors can contribute to the development of breast lumps, including:
Fibrocystic Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause breast tissue to become denser and form cysts or fibroadenomas, benign (non-cancerous) growths that feel like smooth, firm lumps.
Fibroadenomas: These are the most common benign breast tumours, consisting of glandular and connective tissue. They often present as well-defined, rubbery masses that move easily under the skin.
Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs within the breast tissue can develop due to hormonal changes or inflammation. They may feel soft or firm and can fluctuate in size throughout the menstrual cycle.
Breast Cancer: While less common, breast lumps can also be indicative of breast cancer. Cancerous lumps may feel irregular, hard, and may be associated with other symptoms such as changes in breast shape, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling.
At Birmingham Breast Group, a thorough evaluation is conducted to diagnose breast lumps accurately. This may include:
Clinical Breast Examination: A healthcare provider conducts a physical examination of the breasts, palpating for lumps, changes in texture, or other abnormalities.
Imaging Studies: Mammograms, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be recommended to obtain detailed images of the breast tissue and identify any abnormalities.
Biopsy: If a suspicious lump is identified, a tissue sample may be obtained through a biopsy procedure for further analysis. This can confirm whether the lump is benign or malignant.
The treatment approach for breast lumps depends on the underlying cause and whether the lump is benign or cancerous. At Birmingham Breast Group, treatment options may include:
Monitoring and Observation: In cases where the lump is determined to be benign and not causing significant symptoms, a “watchful waiting” approach may be recommended. This involves regular monitoring through clinical examinations and imaging studies to ensure stability or resolution over time.
Medication: For benign breast conditions such as fibrocystic changes or cysts, medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as pain or inflammation. Hormonal therapy may also be considered to regulate hormone levels and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: If a breast lump is causing discomfort or interfering with daily activities, minimally invasive procedures such as cyst aspiration or core needle biopsy may be performed to drain fluid or remove tissue from the lump.
Surgical Excision: In cases where a biopsy reveals a benign but symptomatic or enlarging lump, surgical excision may be recommended to remove the lump entirely. This can provide relief from symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Surgery for Breast Cancer: If a breast lump is found to be cancerous, treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumour, followed by additional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve outcomes.
Breast lumps can be a source of anxiety and uncertainty, but timely evaluation and appropriate treatment can provide reassurance and peace of mind. At Birmingham Breast Group, patients can expect compassionate care and comprehensive treatment options tailored to their individual needs. Whether the lump is benign or cancerous, the expert team at Birmingham Breast Group is dedicated to supporting patients through every step of their breast health journey, ensuring the best possible outcomes and quality of life.
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
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