Breast cancer is a frightening thing for every woman. To detect whether the body has breast cancer or not, it can be done in two ways, namely self-detection with the ‘BSE’ technique and medical detection through a series of laboratory tests.
Both of these methods are very important to do, so that the presence of cancer cells can be identified and treated more quickly.
1. To detect independently using the ‘BSE’ technique, you can take the following steps:
– Adjust the position, it is recommended to do it while lying down to do palpation.
– The second step is preparation. Place your right hand above your head. Lie on your back and raise your arms so that the breast tissue can extend against the chest wall for optimal thinness.
– Use three fingers (index, middle and ring fingers) of the left hand. Make small and circular movements on the right breast. Perform the motion as you move up and down the breast from the ribs to the collarbones, and the armpits to the sternum.
– While massaging, vary the pressure on each site to check for different tissue depths. Use light pressure on the surface, moderate pressure on the deeper areas (about ¼ to ½ inch deeper), and heavier pressure for the chest and rib cage areas. Repeat this movement on the other breast. If you find a lump, swelling, or any change in the shape of your breast, you should see a doctor immediately.
– Stand in front of the mirror and press firmly on the hips, while the heels are in the palms. This movement aims to tighten the chest muscles so that abnormalities in the breasts are more easily seen. Look for skin or nipple changes, including the shape, contour, size, color, or texture of the skin (such as scales, sores, rashes, indentations, or wrinkling of the skin). Raise each arm little by little to make it easier to feel for the presence or absence of lumps of lymph nodes in the armpit area.
2. In cases of breast cancer, it usually also requires further medical examinations. Here are some laboratory tests that can be done to detect breast cancer:
• Mammography
Mammography is a method of examining the breast using low-dose X-rays. During the exam, the breasts are pressed against two plates to flatten and spread the breast tissue.
This procedure may be uncomfortable, but it is very important to produce good, legible mammogram images.
• Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound is an examination that uses sound waves. Ultrasound can distinguish lumps in the form of solid tumors or cysts. Breast ultrasound is also used to evaluate breast problems seen on a mammogram and is more recommended for young women, namely under the age of 30.
• MRI
MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a more sensitive cancer detection tool than mammography, but MRI has a higher false positive rate. That is, often appears a picture of breast abnormalities that are not cancer.
• PET Scan
PET Scan is the latest examination method that can describe the anatomy and metabolism of cancer cells. You do this by injecting a contrast agent through a vein which will be absorbed by the cancer cells. The degree of absorption of contrast substances by cancer cells can reflect the histological degree and potential aggressiveness of the tumor.
• Biopsy
This method is an examination by taking a tissue sample in the breast and then doing an examination to detect the presence of cancer cells. There are 3 types of biopsies that can be done, namely a fine needle biopsy or called Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB), a biopsy by making a small incision in the skin of the breast and taking a small amount of tumor tissue or Core Biopsy, and a surgical biopsy or Surgical Biopsy.
If BantenNews.co.id friends experience a lump or other symptoms of breast cancer, immediately consult a doctor at the hospital. Early detection of breast cancer can help with more intensive treatment. (red)
