Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Early Signs

1. Inward retraction of the nipple, spontaneous bloody discharge from the nipple
2. Redness and thickening of the skin on one breast
3. A lump on the breast that pulls part of the skin toward itself or is sometimes noticeable under the armpit
4. An irregularly shaped, hard lump that is distinct from the surrounding tissue, usually solitary and painless

Very few lumps that women find in their breasts are dangerous. A family history of breast cancer is a high risk factor, but most breast cancer patients do not have a family history of breast cancer. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you should inform your doctor.