What treatment options are available for Paget’s disease of the breast?
Paget’s disease of the breast is a rare form of breast cancer that affects the nipple and areola. Treatment options typically involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and medication. Here are some common treatment options:
Surgery:
1. Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast, often recommended for more extensive disease.
2. Lumpectomy: Removal of the affected area, nipple, and areola, followed by radiation therapy.
3. Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Removal of the breast tissue, preserving the nipple and areola.
Radiation Therapy:
1. External beam radiation: Targets the breast tissue and lymph nodes.
2. Brachytherapy: Internal radiation therapy, where a radioactive implant is placed near the tumor site.
Medication:
1. Hormone therapy: For hormone receptor-positive tumors, to reduce the risk of recurrence.
2. Chemotherapy: For more aggressive tumors or those that have spread to lymph nodes.
3. Targeted therapy: For HER2-positive tumors, to target specific cancer cells.
Additional Treatments:
1. Sentinel lymph node biopsy: To assess lymph node involvement.
2. Axillary lymph node dissection: Removal of lymph nodes in the armpit.
3. Breast reconstruction: After mastectomy, to restore the breast’s appearance.
It’s essential to note that treatment plans are individualized based on the stage, size, and characteristics of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals will work together to determine the best course of treatment.