Intravenous (IV) Therapy At Patients Medical we can create an IV therapy protocol to specifically address your medical and lifestyle needs, from nutrition supplementation and treatment of migraines, to respiratory ailments, chronic conditions, and many more.
Anti-Aging and Longevity Treatments Remember when you were in college and stayed up all night drinking beer, eating pizza, and partying; yet you still were able to attend class in the morning? How many of you could do that now?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the breast tissue, most commonly in the inner lining of the milk ducts (in ductal carcinoma) or the lobules (in lobular carcinoma). It can also occur in other areas of the breast, such as in the stroma (the supportive tissue of the breast) or in the lymph nodes. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and it is the second most common cancer overall.
Risk factors for breast cancer include being female, increasing age, certain genetic mutations (such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes), a personal or family history of breast cancer, exposure to certain hormones (such as elevated levels of estrogen), certain benign breast conditions, radiation exposure, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and obesity.
Symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes to the shape or size of the breast, skin dimpling or puckering, redness or scaling of the breast skin, or a discharge from the nipple. However, many of these symptoms can also be caused by other, benign conditions, and breast cancer can also occur without any symptoms at all.
If you have any symptoms or risk factors for breast cancer, it is important to speak with your doctor. They may recommend screenings such as a mammogram, an ultrasound, or a breast MRI. If cancer is detected, your doctor will recommend further tests to determine the stage of the cancer and the best course of treatment. Treatment options for breast cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Innovative technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) are also used to detect cancer in the initial stages as well.
It is important to remember that breast cancer is a highly treatable disease, especially when caught early. Regular screenings and self-exams, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can help increase the chances of early detection and successful treatment.
The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area. However, breast cancer can also cause several other changes in the breast, such as:
It is important to note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other, benign conditions. It is important to speak with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts, even if you do not have a lump. They may recommend further tests to determine the cause of the changes and the best course of action.
In addition to physical symptoms, some women with breast cancer also experience emotional and psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, feeling overwhelmed, or difficulty making decisions.
It is also important to note that many people with breast cancer do not have any symptoms at all. That is why regular screenings, such as mammograms, are so important. They can help detect breast cancer in its initial stages when it is most treatable.
There are several diverse types of breast cancer, which are typically classified based on where in the breast the cancer begins and how the cancer cells look under a microscope. Some of the main types of breast cancer include:
Each type of breast cancer has its own set of characteristics and risk factors, and they may be treated differently. If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor will recommend further testing to determine the specific type of cancer you have, as well as its stage and grade. This information will help guide your treatment plan.
It is important to keep in mind that, even though there are many diverse types of breast cancer, early detection and treatment can often lead to successful outcomes.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that tests negative for the three most common types of breast cancer receptors: estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The lack of these receptors makes TNBC more aggressive and harder to treat than other types of breast cancer.
TNBC tends to be more common in younger women and in women with a BRCA1 genetic mutation. It also tends to be more common in women of African descent. The subtype of cancer cells is often basal-like with high grade and more aggressive.
Symptoms of TNBC are like other types of breast cancer and include a lump or thickening in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, skin dimpling or puckering, and changes to the nipple. TNBC can also cause inflammation in the breast, making it appear red and swollen.
Treatment options for TNBC include surgery (breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials of new treatments. Because TNBC is more aggressive and harder to treat than other types of breast cancer, it is important to detect it as early as possible. Regular screenings and self-exams, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can help increase the chances of early detection.
If you have been diagnosed with TNBC, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. They may also suggest genetic testing to identify any underlying genetic mutations and evaluate any family history that may be related to cancer. There is ongoing research for new treatments for TNBC, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies, which may help improve the outcomes for people with TNBC.
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for about 1-5% of all breast cancer cases.
IBC can be difficult to detect because it often does not cause a lump or mass that can be felt and it is not often seen on mammograms, but it can cause the breast to become red, swollen, warm to the touch, and painful, often with a pitted appearance of the skin similar to an orange peel, and it can enlarge the lymph nodes. Because of this, IBC is often misdiagnosed as an infection or other inflammatory condition.
IBC tends to be more common in younger women and in women with a BRCA1 genetic mutation, but it can occur in anyone. This subtype of cancer cells is often triple-negative, which means that it does not express the three most common types of breast cancer receptors: estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2).
Treatment options for IBC typically involve a combination of therapies, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Because IBC is so aggressive, treatment usually starts as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed.
If you suspect you might have IBC, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will perform a physical examination, order imaging tests and blood work, and may also do a biopsy. If the diagnosis is IBC, prompt and aggressive treatment is needed.
It is important to note that the outcomes for IBC are poorer than for other types of breast cancer, due to its aggressive nature, However, new treatments and clinical trials are being developed and evaluated continuously to improve the outcomes for people with IBC.
Metastatic breast cancer, also known as advanced breast cancer or stage IV breast cancer, is breast cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. In most cases, metastatic breast cancer arises from cancer cells that have spread from an original primary tumor in the breast, but it can also occur from a primary cancer that has been previously treated but has come back.
Symptoms of metastatic breast cancer depend on where the cancer has spread. Common symptoms include bone pain (if the cancer has spread to the bones), jaundice (if it has spread to the liver) and coughing or shortness of breath (if it has spread to the lungs).
Treatment for metastatic breast cancer typically involves a combination of therapies, such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery is not usually an option in this stage because cancer is present in multiple body locations.
The goal of treatment is to slow the growth of the cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of life. The treatment plan is tailored to the individual, considering the patient's overall health, the location of the cancer, and the specific characteristics of the cancer.
It is important to note that metastatic breast cancer is not curable, but with the right treatment, people with this disease can live for many years. New treatments and clinical trials are ongoing to improve the outcomes and overall survival of people living with metastatic breast cancer.
It is also important for people with metastatic breast cancer to have a care team that includes oncologists, primary care doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who specialize in caring for people with advanced cancer. They may also recommend supportive care services, such as physical therapy and pain management, to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and tissues that help to rid the body of toxins, waste products, and other unwanted materials. Lymph nodes are strategically located throughout the body, including in the neck, armpits, and groin, and serve as filters for the lymphatic fluid that flows through them.
Lymph nodes are made up of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, which help to identify and fight off harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. When a pathogen enters the body, it is often first detected by the lymphatic system, and will likely make its way to the nearest lymph node, where immune cells can begin to multiply and attack the invader.
Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign of infection, injury, or inflammation in the body. They are often one of the first signs of an infection and can indicate the presence of a localized or systemic infection. If the lymph nodes in your neck, underarm, or groin feel swollen, tender, or painful, it may be a sign of an infection or another underlying condition. If you are experiencing this symptom, please consult with your doctor to get proper diagnosis and treatment.
Additionally, the size and consistency of the lymph nodes can also be used to stage the spread of certain cancer types. For example, the size and location of swollen lymph nodes can help oncologists to determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and at what stage the cancer has progressed.
Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer from the primary site (where it first developed) to other parts of the body. This occurs when cancer cells break away from the primary tumor, enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and begin to grow in other areas of the body. Metastasis is a serious complication of cancer, as it can make the disease more difficult to treat and can significantly impact a person's prognosis.
Different types of cancer can metastasize to different areas of the body. For example, breast cancer can metastasize to the bones, lungs, or brain, while prostate cancer can metastasize to the bones. The process of metastasis can take months or even years, and the symptoms of metastatic cancer will depend on where the cancer has spread.
Metastatic cancer is typically more advanced and harder to treat than the primary cancer. Treatment options for metastatic cancer can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, as well as newer therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. The goal of treatment for metastatic cancer is typically to control the growth and spread of the cancer, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of life. In some cases, metastatic cancer may be incurable, but treatment can still help to slow the progression of the disease and improve the patient's symptoms.
It is important to note that not all cancers metastasize, and that the ability for a cancer to spread and the likelihood of it doing so will vary depending on the type of cancer, the stage it is at, and the characteristics of the tumor.
As I mentioned before, metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the primary site of a tumor to other parts of the body. This is typically the most crucial step in the progression of a cancer and the most dangerous because it makes the cancer harder to treat and reduces the patient's chances of survival.
The process of metastasis is complex and not well understood. Cancer cells usually leave the primary tumor and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system. They can then travel through the circulatory or lymphatic system to various parts of the body, where they can form new tumors. Once they reach a new site, they can start to grow and form new tumors, called metastases.
There are several stages in the process of metastasis, including:
It is important to note that not all cancer cells could metastasize and that there is a big variability in the ability of a tumor to invade and metastasize. The genetic makeup, the microenvironment and the immune response of the host can influence the process of metastasis.
In general, early detection and treatment of primary cancer can reduce the risk of metastasis and improve the chances of survival. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of cancer and to seek medical attention if you experience any suspicious symptoms.
A mammogram is a type of X-ray that is specifically designed to create images of breast tissue. It is a screening tool used to detect breast cancer in women who have no symptoms of the disease. A mammogram can detect small tumors that may not be felt during a self-exam or clinical exam.
The procedure for a mammogram typically involves the following steps:
A radiologist, a doctor who specializes in interpreting X-rays, will then examine the images for any signs of abnormality. In some cases, additional images or tests may be needed if an abnormality is found.
Mammograms have been proven to be effective in detecting breast cancer at an early stage when it is more likely to be treatable. The American College of Radiology recommends that women should start getting mammograms at age 45 and should switch to annual mammograms starting at age 55. Women who are at higher risk for breast cancer, such as those who have a family history of the disease, may need to start getting mammograms earlier and/or more frequently.
It is important to note that mammograms are not perfect and can sometimes produce false-negative results (meaning a cancer is present but not detected) or false-positive results (meaning an abnormality is detected but is not cancer). Additional testing such as ultrasound or biopsy may be needed to confirm a suspected breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the breast tissue, usually in the cells of the lobules or ducts. The most common symptoms of breast cancer are a lump in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, and changes to the skin on the breast, such as redness or dimpling. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all, and the cancer is only discovered during a routine mammogram.
There are several diverse types of breast cancer, including ductal carcinoma, which starts in the ducts and is the most common type; lobular carcinoma, which starts in the lobules; and inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare and aggressive form of the disease that causes the breast to become red, swollen, and warm.
Breast cancer can also be classified based on the presence or absence of certain receptors on the surface of the cancer cells. For example, if the cancer cells have receptors for the hormone’s estrogen and progesterone, the cancer is referred to as hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. If the cancer cells do not have these receptors, the cancer is referred to as hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. The presence or absence of these receptors can affect treatment options.
Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history of the disease, certain genetic mutations, a history of breast biopsies, radiation exposure, and certain lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and obesity. While most of the cases are seen in women, there is also a small percentage of men who can also be diagnosed with breast cancer.
Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy, and will vary based on the type and stage of the cancer as well as the patient's overall health. Regular screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, can help detect breast cancer early and improve the chances of successful treatment.
Men have a small amount of breast tissue, which can develop cancer just like the breast tissue in women. The symptoms of breast cancer in men are like those in women and include a lump or thickening in the breast tissue, changes to the skin on the breast, such as redness or dimpling, and pain or discomfort in the breast area.
Risk factors for male breast cancer include increasing age, family history of the disease, certain genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, elevated levels of estrogen in the body, exposure to radiation, and certain medical conditions such as cirrhosis of the liver.
Just like women, the treatment options for male breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. The choice of treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor and patient's overall health status. Additionally, Regular screenings, such as clinical breast exams, can help detect breast cancer early in men and improve the chances of successful treatment.
It is important for men to be aware that breast cancer is a possibility, even though it is less common, and to be aware of any changes in the breast area, and to consult a doctor if they notice any unusual symptoms.
The exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, but several factors have been identified that can increase a person's risk of developing the disease. Some of the most common risk factors include:
It is important to note that many women who have one or more of these risk factors will not develop breast cancer, and conversely, many women who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors.
Research is ongoing to identify more specific causes of breast cancer and to find new ways to prevent, detect and treat the disease. There are many genetic and epigenetic changes happening in breast cancer, understanding the mechanisms that cause these changes and how they contribute to the development of the cancer is one of the key areas of research.
While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are certain steps that women can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease:
It is also important to note that some of the risk factors for breast cancer, such as age, family history, and certain genetic mutations, cannot be changed. Women with these risk factors should talk to their doctor about ways to monitor their breast health and detect breast cancer early.
It is also worth noting that there is no single preventive measure that can eliminate the risk of breast cancer, and some of the prevention measures mentioned above may have potential side effects as well. Therefore, it is always important to talk to your doctor about the best ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer and to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
The most common first sign of breast cancer is a lump or thickening in the breast tissue. This is often discovered during a self-exam or during a clinical breast exam. The lump may feel hard or rubbery and may be painless.
Other signs of breast cancer include changes in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin on the breast such as redness or dimpling, a rash or crusting around the nipple, and changes to the nipple such as a discharge, retraction or turning inward.
It is worth noting that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions and are not always an indication of breast cancer. Lumps or changes in the breast tissue can also be caused by benign conditions such as cysts, fibroadenomas and other benign breast conditions.
It is important to see a doctor if you notice any unusual changes in your breast, even if they turn out to be non-cancerous, and to have regular screenings such as mammograms and clinical breast exams as part of your breast health plan. Also, it is important to pay attention to any other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or pain which may not be related to breast changes but could indicate a more advanced stage of cancer.
Our job at Patients Medical is to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for people to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.
For those that can make the journey, we are happy to welcome new patients to our medical center in New York City. Fill out the form at the top of this page, or call us at 1-212-794-8800. We are here to listen and to help.
We are located at: Patients Medical PC, 1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128.