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Breast Self-Exam Checklist |
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Be familiar with normal appearance of your breasts.
Look for swelling, puckering, dimpling, redness, and nipple discharge.
Feel for unusual lumps, soreness, change from normal consistency.
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Lab Tests
The BRCA (breast cancer gene test) is a blood test for BRCA gene mutations. In families where two or more relatives have breast cancer, there are often mutations (alterations) of the genes known as BRCA-1 or BRCA-2. BRCA-1 stands for the first gene discovered that was associated with "BReast CAncer." BRCA-2 is the second gene discovered.
Knowing your genetic risk for breast cancer will help your doctor to map out a strategy for breast cancer (and ovarian cancer) surveillance. In addition, your doctor may recommend medications, such as tamoxifen, that may prevent some breast cancer cases.
Some women who have this mutation and are at very high risk of breast cancer choose to have surgery to remove their healthy breasts. This can prevent breast cancer in the future. Of course, this decision must be made very carefully. Experts recommend genetic counseling when considering these tests and before making any decisions about preventive steps.
More on Breast Cancer Breast Cancer in the Family
Breast Cancer: Understanding Your Pathology Report
In the Encyclopedia: Breast reconstruction
Breast self-examination
Breast ultrasound
Breast cancer
Lumpectomy
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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