Paget’s disease of the breast – a rare form of breast cancer
PAGET’S disease of the breast is a rare form of breast cancer that starts on the nipples and spreads to the areolas (the dark skin close to the nipple) and sometimes other parts of the breasts.
Consultant obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Jordan Hardie says that it is easy to mistake this disease for a less serious ailment such as eczema or a rash, because its symptoms are very similar to those of minor skin irritations. These include itchiness, redness, crusting or flaking skin on and around the nipple, and pale yellow or bloody nipple discharge.
“Other symptoms that may present themselves are a tingling or burning sensation, inverted (turned in) nipples, and a lump in the breast,” Dr Hardie confirms.
Paget’s disease of the breast is often present in women who have an underlying form of breast cancer; although in rare cases no other cancer is found.
“The cause of Paget’s disease of the breast is unknown. So far, scientists theorise that this disease is a result of existing ductal breast cancer, whose cells travel through milk ducts to the nipple. Another group of researchers believe that it can form on its own in the nipple,” the doctor says.
Because of its similarity to, and usual accompaniment of breast cancer, Paget’s disease of the breast is diagnosed and treated similarly to breast cancer.
“Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among Jamaica women,” Dr Hardie emphasises.
“The risk factors that influence the likelihood of a woman developing Paget’s disease of the breast are also similar to those of breast cancer. These include age (women over 50 are more at risk), family history, a history of breast irregularities, existing or treated breast cancer, having dense breast tissue, obesity, exposure to radiation, and excessive alcohol consumption.”
Ethnicity also plays a role in the probability, as white women are more likely to develop breast cancer than other racial groups, but black women are more likely to die from it.
Though there is no sure way to prevent Paget’s disease or any other form of cancer, some preventative steps that may be taken include maintaining a balanced diet and healthy body weight, exercising regularly, and doing regular self-breast examinations, prescribes Dr Hardie.
He points out, however, that some of the typical symptoms of Paget’s breast disease may be caused by other factors, such as breastfeeding.
“Breastfeeding can cause laceration to the nipple’s areolar region,” he says. “This, however, should respond to treatment.”
Nevertheless, he urges women who suspect that something is amiss with their breasts to speak with their doctors.
“Whenever patients note any abnormalities in their breast they are to see their physician to have it examined,” he cautions. “If any further investigation is required then it can be requested at that time.”
