According to the American Cancer Society, inflammatory breast cancer is a rare, very aggressive form of cancer that is difficult to diagnose with traditional methods such as mammograms and general physicals. Left untreated, inflammatory breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes. It can go unnoticed for a time because it does not produce the lumps associated with common breast cancer. Symptoms become noticeable only after the cancer cells begin to obstruct the blood vessels within the lymphatic system, which then causes the breast tissue to become swollen and inflamed. According to a the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database, the chances of surviving five years after diagnosis with inflammatory breast cancer are about 40 percent, whereas the chances of surviving five years with other types of breast cancer are about 87 percent.
Sudden Changes in Breast Appearance
A breast affected by inflammatory breast cancer may become discolored or appear bruised. It may look pink, red or purple. It may also have a dimpled look.
Sudden Breast Enlargement
One breast may suddenly swell or seem heavier than the other one.
Warm Feeling
One breast may feel noticeably warmer than the other.
Lymph Node Changes
The underarm lymph nodes and those above or below the collarbones may swell.
Discomfort
The affected breast may itch and/or ache.
Nipple Changes
The nipple on the affected breast may flatten or turn inward. Also, the nipple may appear swollen or have crusty skin.
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