Symptoms and signs of mammary gland cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization [1], more than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 alone, and nearly 685,000 died from the disease globally that same year [2]. Despite advances in medicine, mammary tumors remain a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, primarily due to late diagnosis.

In the early stages, cancer cells in the breast tissue often do not cause noticeable symptoms. This makes timely detection especially challenging – yet absolutely crucial. When mammary cancer is diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90% [3]. However, once the tumor size increases or the disease spreads to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs, treatment becomes more complex, and survival rates decrease significantly.

To help women detect the disease early, we will describe the most common symptoms, explain what changes to look for, and help you understand your personal breast cancer risk. Recognizing breast cancer symptoms at an early stage is the most effective way to improve treatment outcomes, preserve quality of life, and even save lives.

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General Symptoms of Mammary Gland Cancer

Mammary gland cancer, or mammary gland tumors, are malignant growths that form from the epithelial cells of breast tissue. Like many cancers, its symptoms often appear silently and may be subtle in the early stages. As the tumor grows, however, signs become more evident, especially if women regularly perform self-examinations and attend screenings. Understanding the full range of mammary tumor symptoms is essential for timely detection and effective treatment.

Categories of Symptoms

To simplify detection, the symptoms of mammary tumors can be grouped into three main categories: visible changes, palpable signs, and subjective (sensory) symptoms.

Visible Signs of Mammary Tumors

These are changes you can see with the naked eye and are often among the first breast cancer warning signs noticed during self-examination or by a physician:

• Changes in breast shape or size: One breast may appear noticeably larger, higher, or more deformed than the other. While natural asymmetry is common, a recent change should be evaluated.
• Skin changes: Look for dimpling, swelling, thickening, or an orange-peel texture (peau d'orange). These may indicate tumor infiltration into lymphatic vessels or surrounding tissues.
• Redness or rashes: Particularly around the areola, persistent redness may be a symptom of inflammatory mammary cancer, a rare but aggressive form of the disease.
• Nipple changes: Retraction (pulling inward), rotation, or crusting may suggest involvement of deeper cancer cells. Discharge – whether bloody, purulent, or resembling colostrum – is also a potential sign.
• Ulceration or open wounds: In late stages, some mammary tumors may ulcerate, leading to bleeding or non-healing lesions.

Paget's disease of the breast, a rare subtype, manifests as:

• Scaly, red patches or ulcers on the nipple and areola
• Itching, burning, or oozing around the nipple

This condition is frequently misdiagnosed as eczema but may be a symptom of an underlying mammary cancer. [4]

Palpable Signs of Mammary Cancer

Palpation often reveals abnormal lumps before visible changes occur. Women who regularly check their breasts may be able to detect breast cancer early by recognizing these changes:

• Lumps or nodules: These are the most common signs of mammary cancer in women. They are usually hard, irregular, and immobile. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new or persistent lump should be evaluated.
• Changes in gland mobility: In some cases, the affected breast may move abnormally or appear "fixed" due to tumor attachment to underlying structures.
• Thickened tissue or diffuse hardening: Unlike a single lump, some malignant tumors spread diffusely, making the entire area feel firm and uneven.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged axillary (underarm), supraclavicular (above collarbone), or cervical nodes may indicate tumor spread even before a lump is felt.

Mammary tumors less than 2 cm in size (T1 according to TNM classification) may not show clear symptoms. However, with consistent monthly self-examinations, even small tumors can often be detected early. [5]

Subjective (Sensory) Symptoms

These are based on how a woman feels. Though they are less specific, they should not be ignored:

• Itching or burning sensations in the breast or nipple area
• Discomfort or tightness, often mistaken for premenstrual symptoms
• Pain in the breast or underarm: While early breast cancer is typically painless, certain forms, such as inflammatory breast cancer or advanced mammary tumors, may cause pain due to skin stretching, edema, or tissue necrosis.
• Fever, fatigue, and nausea: These signs of systemic intoxication usually appear in advanced stages, when tumor cells enter the bloodstream or cause inflammation.

It is important to note that breast cancer symptoms are not always severe or alarming. In fact, up to 10% of breast cancers are detected through imaging without any physical symptoms at all. [3, 4]

Atypical Presentations

Some forms of mammary cancer do not present with a clear lump. Instead, they may mimic benign conditions or inflammatory diseases. These include:

• Inflammatory breast cancer: A fast-growing cancer where the breast becomes red, swollen, and warm. Often mistaken for an infection.
• Diffuse mammary tumors: The entire breast may feel firmer or heavier without a specific lump.
• Eczematous lesions (Paget's): May be misdiagnosed as dermatitis or skin irritation.

Why Recognizing Symptoms Early Matters

While some malignant tumors grow slowly, others spread quickly and metastasize to the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. The earlier cancer cells are detected, the better the chances for breast-conserving surgery and a full recovery. Many women delay seeking care due to fear or misinformation, but early recognition and action remain the most powerful tools in the fight against mammary tumors.

If you notice any of these symptoms or changes, consult a doctor promptly – even if the changes seem minor. Early diagnosis remains the key to survival and treatment success.

When to See a Doctor

One of the most dangerous misconceptions about breast cancer is the belief that it always causes pain or noticeable discomfort early on. In reality, most early signs of breast cancer are subtle, and waiting for pain before seeking help can lead to delayed diagnosis and more aggressive disease progression. If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts – even if they seem minor or painless – it is essential to consult a doctor without delay.

The following breast cancer warning signs should prompt immediate medical attention:

• New lumps or hard areas in the breast or underarm
• Nipple changes, including retraction (pulling inward), crusting, or a rash that does not heal
• Unusual nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody or occurs without squeezing
• Skin changes such as dimpling, thickening, redness, or a peau d'orange (orange peel) texture
• Sudden asymmetry, such as one breast appearing larger, higher, or firmer than the other
• Persistent itching, swelling, or a burning sensation in the breast
• Swelling of lymph nodes in the armpit or above the collarbone
• A non-healing sore or ulcer on the breast

Even if these signs do not cause discomfort, they may indicate the presence of cancer cells or underlying mammary tumors. Early-stage cancers are often treatable with less invasive methods, including breast-conserving surgery and targeted therapy. However, postponing evaluation can lead to tumor growth, skin involvement, and the spread of malignant cells to other organs.

It is especially important to consult a doctor if you are over the age of 40 and have not had a recent clinical breast exam or mammogram. Regular screenings combined with vigilance about changes in your body provide the best chance to treat breast cancer early – when outcomes are most favorable and treatment options are broader.

Remember: being cautious can save your life. If something does not seem right, do not wait – get it checked.

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Diagnostic Steps After Symptoms Appear

If you or your doctor suspect breast cancer based on symptoms, the next step is to begin a series of diagnostic procedures to confirm the presence of a tumor, determine its type, and assess how far it has progressed. Early detection is key to managing the risk of breast cancer progression, and accurate breast cancer diagnosis helps ensure successful treatment and long-term survival.

Imaging Tests to Detect Breast Cancer Early

The first line of diagnostics includes imaging tools designed to detect structural changes in the breast tissue:

• Mammography: This low-dose X-ray is the gold standard for early breast cancer screening. It helps identify mammary tumors as small as a few millimeters, even before symptoms appear. In many countries, women over 40 are advised to undergo routine mammograms once every 1-2 years.
• Ultrasound: Often used in combination with mammography, ultrasound helps differentiate between solid malignant tumors and fluid-filled cysts. It is especially useful in younger women with denser breast tissue.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI provides high-resolution images and is used when mammography or ultrasound results are inconclusive. It is also useful for evaluating the extent of the disease in patients already diagnosed with breast cancer.

These imaging methods help detect abnormal masses and guide the next step – biopsy.

Biopsy: Confirming the Presence of Cancer Cells

A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope. It is used to confirm if the mass is benign or part of a group of mammary gland tumors. There are several types:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA)
• Core needle biopsy
• Surgical (excisional) biopsy

A biopsy is the only definitive way to confirm whether the lump contains breast cancer cells. In addition to confirming malignancy, the sample is analyzed for specific biological markers that influence treatment.

Histopathology and Receptor Testing

After the tissue is removed, it undergoes histopathological analysis to determine:

• The type of tumor (e.g., ductal, lobular)
• The grade (how aggressive the tumor cells look under a microscope)
• Hormone receptor status (estrogen and progesterone receptors)
• HER2 status, a protein that promotes cancer growth

These findings help oncologists select the most effective treatment and estimate the likely course of the disease.

Staging the Disease

Once cancer is confirmed, further tests – such as CT scans, PET scans, or bone scans – are used to determine the tumor size and whether the disease has spread to lymph nodes or distant organs. This is called staging, and it ranges from:

• Stage 0-I: Localized, small mammary tumors
• Stage II-III: Regional spread to lymph nodes or skin
• Stage IV: Malignant tumors with distant metastases (lungs, liver, bones)

Correct staging is crucial for selecting the appropriate treatment and accurately predicting the outcome.

By following these steps, doctors can detect mammary cancer early, understand its biology, and develop a personalized treatment strategy. The sooner these diagnostics begin after the first symptom, the greater the chances of success.

Breast Self-Examination

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to detect breast cancer early is through monthly breast self-examinations. This practice helps women become familiar with their breast tissue and notice even subtle changes that could indicate an issue. While self-examination is not a substitute for professional screening, it plays a vital role in early detection – especially in countries where access to regular clinical evaluations may be limited.

According to the World Health Organization [1] and the American Cancer Society [3, 4], women should begin conducting self-exams in their early 20s, as the risk of breast cancer increases with age. Although early breast cancer symptoms often go unnoticed, consistent self-monitoring significantly increases the chance of identifying signs at an early stage, when treatment is most effective and survival rates exceed 90%.

How and When to Perform a Self-Exam

The best time to perform a self-examination is 7-10 days after the start of menstruation, when the breasts are least swollen or tender. Postmenopausal women should choose the same day each month to remain consistent.

Here is how to examine your breasts:

1. Visual Inspection (in front of a mirror): Stand with arms by your sides, then raised, then pressed on hips. Look for signs of breast cancer in women, such as:

• Changes in size, shape, or symmetry
• Skin puckering, redness, or dimpling
• Nipple discharge, rashes, or retraction

2. Palpation (while lying down): Use the pads of your three middle fingers to feel your entire breast area in a circular motion, applying different pressure levels. Use the same "route" each time – either clockwise, up-and-down, or wedge-shaped patterns. Do not forget the underarm area.
3. Palpation (in the shower): Wet skin allows fingers to glide more easily and may make it easier to feel changes in breast tissue.

Any lump, swelling, skin change, or unusual sensation should prompt a visit to a doctor – even if it turns out to be benign.

Self-Examination vs. Clinical Screening

While self-exams are helpful, they do not replace medical screening. As mentioned above, clinical breast exams and mammography are more accurate and can detect cancer before physical signs appear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [6] recommends mammograms every 1-2 years for women aged 40-74, depending on individual risk factors.

However, in many parts of the world, most cases are still detected by women themselves. Therefore, a combination of self-awareness and clinical screening offers the best protection.

By maintaining this monthly habit, you can significantly improve your chances of detecting breast cancer early – and potentially save your life.

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Late Symptoms of Breast Cancer

When breast cancer is not detected early or left untreated, it continues to grow and eventually invades surrounding tissues and distant organs. These late-stage symptoms are usually associated with larger tumor size, tissue destruction, and the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body – a condition known as metastatic breast cancer.

Systemic Symptoms and Tumor Progression

As mammary tumors grow, they often outpace their blood supply, leading to tissue breakdown, necrosis, and chronic inflammation. This is typically when patients begin to experience:

• Persistent pain in the breast, chest wall, or underarm
• Unhealed wounds on the breast, often with foul-smelling discharge
• Ulceration or open sores, which may bleed or become infected
• Visible lumps or masses protruding from the breast surface
• Discharge of pus or necrotic tissue from the nipple

The skin over the tumor may become darkened, swollen, and hot to the touch. These signs reflect an advanced local invasion of the breast tissue.

In many cases, the tumor infiltrates surrounding structures such as the pectoral muscles or chest wall, leading to restricted arm mobility and persistent pain. Inflammatory breast cancer, a rare but aggressive subtype, can cause diffuse swelling, redness, and thickening of the entire breast without a distinct lump.

Distant Metastases and Organ Involvement

Once the breast cancer spreads beyond the local region, it becomes life-threatening. The most common sites of metastasis include:

• Bones: leading to deep, aching pain and increased risk of fractures
• Lungs: causing shortness of breath, chest pain, and pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
• Liver: resulting in jaundice, abdominal pain, and weight loss
• Central nervous system (CNS): including the spinal cord and brain, which may trigger headaches, seizures, or motor/sensory deficits

Metastatic breast cancer is usually stage IV and considered incurable, but not untreatable. Therapies aim to slow disease progression, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life.

General Signs of Advanced Disease

Patients in the advanced stage often experience:

• Severe fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid weight loss
• Fever or night sweats
• Nausea or vomiting

These are signs of systemic cancer-related intoxication, often indicating the tumor is actively shedding breast cancer cells into the bloodstream.

Recognizing these symptoms and acting early can prevent many of these complications. Even at later stages, timely intervention can provide meaningful relief and extend survival.

Comparative Table of Breast Cancer Treatments

Modern breast cancer treatment includes a variety of methods tailored to the individual's disease stage, tumor biology, and overall health. Early-stage cancers may be cured with breast cancer surgery and radiation, while advanced or malignant tumors may require multimodal therapy, including systemic drugs.

The table below compares the most commonly used methods to treat mammary cancer, highlighting their purpose, average cost, and when each approach is typically recommended. Please note that the tumor size, location, hormone receptor status, and presence of metastases all influence the final treatment plan.

* Prices may vary depending on the clinic, country, tumor stage, and individual health status. The final cost is determined after the initial examination.

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Where to Treat Breast Cancer in Germany

Germany is internationally recognized for its high standards in breast cancer treatment, offering access to advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgery, and innovative therapies for even the most complex malignant tumors. The country's hospitals are equipped with modern technology and multidisciplinary teams that specialize in individualized care – ensuring that each woman receives a treatment plan tailored to her condition, tumor biology, and health goals.

German oncology departments follow international clinical guidelines and regularly participate in global research trials. Whether you require early-stage intervention or comprehensive care for metastatic or recurrent disease, many leading hospitals in Germany offer the full spectrum of services to treat breast cancer effectively.

Here are some of the best hospitals where international patients receive professional care:

• University Hospital LMU Munich, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics – One of Germany's most respected academic centers for surgical and medical oncology.
• Hannover Medical School (MHH), Department of Gynecology and Mammology – Known for its precision in breast-conserving surgery and complex reconstructions.
• University Hospital Essen, Comprehensive Cancer Center – Offers a full range of therapies, including chemotherapy, targeted drugs, and reconstructive surgery.
• University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Department of Gynecology and Oncology – A leader in diagnostics, intraoperative imaging, and personalized oncology.
• University Hospital Marburg (UKGM), Breast Cancer Center – Specializes in multidisciplinary management and long-term survivorship programs.
• University Hospital Jena, Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine – Provides modern treatments and clinical trials access.
• University Hospital Halle (Saale), Department of Gynecology and Mammology – A certified center of excellence for breast cancer care.
• Dr. Ute Sendler Clinic, Gynecologic Oncology Unit – A private clinic offering personalized and minimally invasive options.
• LDG Laboratories Dr. Gansauge, Berg – A specialized diagnostic center known for advanced molecular testing and individualized pathology reports.

Each of these institutions has a proven track record of success in treating malignant tumors and offers exceptional care to international patients.

Fighting Breast Cancer Together: Treatment Journeys with Booking Health

Antoinette Jacqueline L. (Canada), July 2025

Susan Clark L. (USA), April 2025

Maria S. (Sweden), November 2024

Rumyana A. (Bulgaria), July 2024

Huda O. (Saudi Arabia), December 2023

Magdalena I. (Bulgaria), November 2023

Suzanne L. OD. (United Kingdom), April 2023

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A Medical Journey: Every Step of the Way With Booking Health

Finding the best strategy to treat breast cancer can be overwhelming. After undergoing numerous tests, consulting multiple specialists, and trying different therapies, patients often feel exhausted and unsure of the next step. In this situation, it is easy to settle for the first option offered or follow a standard treatment protocol – even if it comes with significant side effects and limited results.

To make an informed decision and get a personalized breast cancer treatment plan tailored to your specific case, consult the medical experts at Booking Health. For more than 12 years, Booking Health has been among the leaders of international healthcare, helping patients access innovative and effective treatments in Germany's top hospitals.

We offer:

• Comprehensive assessment and analysis of your medical records
• Development of an individualized care plan
• Selection of the most suitable hospital based on your clinical needs
• Preparation and forwarding of medical documentation
• Direct communication with leading breast cancer specialists
• Expert coordination during your hospital stay
• Post-treatment follow-up once you return home
• Full support with travel logistics, visa applications, and scheduling
• A dedicated medical coordinator and interpreter available 24/7
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

When your health is at stake, you deserve a partner with experience and compassion. Booking Health ensures that every step of your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey is safe, smooth, and fully supported.

Contact our medical advisor today to explore your personalized treatment options and take the first step toward a healthier future.

Choose treatment abroad and you will be sure to get the best results!

Authors:

This article was edited by medical experts, board-certified doctors Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, and Dr. Bohdan Mykhalniuk. For the treatment of the conditions referred to in the article, you must consult a doctor; the information in the article is not intended for self-medication!

Our editorial policy, which details our commitment to accuracy and transparency, is available here. Click this link to review our policies.

Sources:

[1] World Health Organization. Global Cancer Burden Growing, Amidst Mounting Need for Services. https://www.who.int/news/item/01-02-2024-global-cancer-burden-growing--amidst-mounting-need-for-services

[2] The Lancet. The Lancet Breast Cancer Commission: Tackling a Global Health, Gender, and Equity Challenge. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0140673622001842

[3] American Cancer Society. Survival Rates for Breast Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/breast-cancer-survival-rates.html

[4] American Cancer Society. Paget Disease of the Breast. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/types-of-breast-cancer/paget-disease-of-the-nipple.html

[5] National Breast Cancer Foundation. Breast Cancer Stages. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-staging/

[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Screening for Breast Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/screening/index.html

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