Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for 1-5% of all breast cancer cases. It is called "inflammatory" because the breast often appears swollen, red, and warm, as if it were inflamed. This is caused by the cancer cells blocking the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast. My early symptoms were an area that felt heavier or thicker than the rest of my breast. Then a small flat pink spot showed up. In a few weeks time, that small pink spot turned into an angry red streak.

Symptoms of IBC can include rapid breast swelling and redness, breast warmth, itchiness, and a thickening or ridging of the skin on the breast. The breast may also appear inverted or flattened, and the nipple may be pushed inward. In some cases, there may be no lump or mass that can be felt, making IBC difficult to detect. It often does not show up on a mammogram.

IBC is typically more advanced at the time of diagnosis than other types of breast cancer, as it tends to spread quickly to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body. This makes treatment more challenging and the prognosis less favorable. I am happy to say I am a fifteen-year survivor!

Treatment for IBC typically includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. In addition to these traditional treatments, clinical trials are underway to explore new and innovative treatments for IBC. These include targeted therapies, which are designed to attack specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells, and immunotherapies, which help the immune system fight cancer cells.

Despite the challenges of treating IBC, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to see a doctor if you suspect something is wrong. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of survival. You may need to advocate for yourself to get a diagnosis quickly, I know I did.

It's also important to note that inflammatory breast cancer disproportionately affects African American women, and individuals with a BRCA1 gene mutation are at an increased risk of developing IBC. We need to work to educate these communities about their increased risk.

Overall, inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Advances in research and treatment are helping to improve the prognosis for individuals with IBC, but early detection and awareness are key to achieving the best possible outcome. Everyone who has a woman in their life needs to know the signs and symptoms of IBC. I had never heard of it until I already had all the symptoms. When it comes to IBC knowledge is power! Visit this website for more detailed information.