The Weiser Family Center for Breast Cancer is dedicated to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for individuals affected by breast cancer. We enhance lives through early detection, personalized treatment, and survivorship support, while advancing research, education, and advocacy. Our unwavering commitment is to make a meaningful difference, improving breast cancer outcomes for all.

If you're a patient interested in making an appointment, please call 734-647-8902.  

Healthcare providers looking to refer a patient, please contact M-LINE: 800-962-3555.

For those with questions, please contact our Cancer AnswerLine at 800-865-1125.

Most cases of ILC don't present obvious symptoms, but ILC may present with:

• Unusual Breast Thickening: ILC can cause an area of thickening in the breast, rather than a distinct lump.
• Changes in Breast Appearance: Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Nipple Inversion: The nipple may become inverted or change in appearance.
• Skin Changes: Redness, dimpling, or other changes to the skin over the breast.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases the chance of developing a disease. The following are potential risk factors for breast cancer:

• Age: Higher risk as age increases.
• Family History: A family history of breast cancer, especially ILC.
• Genetic Mutations: Mutations in genes such as CDH1 or other breast cancer genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Hormonal Factors: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.

The following are ways ILC can by diagnosed:

• Physical Exam: ILC may presents as a thickening or hardening in the breast rather than a distinct lump, which can make it more challenging to detect through physical exam alone.
• Mammogram and Ultrasound: These imaging techniques are used to identify abnormal areas in the breast tissue. However, ILC can sometimes be more difficult to detect via mammogram compared to other types of breast cancer because it tends to grow in a more dispersed pattern.
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be useful in detecting and assessing the extent of ILC.
• Biopsy: A definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where tissue samples from the breast are examined under a microscope.

Treatment for ILC often involves a combination of methods:

Surgery

• Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
• Mastectomy: Removal of the breast, especially if the ILC is widespread.

Radiation Therapy

Often recommended after lumpectomy to reduce the risk of recurrence. Radiation is sometimes also recommended after mastectomy in select situations.  Learn more about radiation therapy and breast cancer.

Chemotherapy

May be recommended depending on the stage and specific characteristics of the cancer.  Learn more about systemic therapies and breast cancer.

Hormonal Therapy

Since many ILCs are hormone receptor-positive, treatments like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors may be used to block the cancer's access to estrogen.

Targeted Therapy

Depending on specific molecular characteristics of the cancer, drugs targeting those pathways may be used.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ILC depends on various factors, including the cancer's stage at diagnosis, the tumor size, the cancer's hormone receptor status, the patient's overall health, and response to treatment. Generally, early-stage ILC has a favorable prognosis with appropriate treatment.

Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up care, including physical exams, imaging tests, are crucial to monitor for any signs of recurrence and manage any long-term side effects of treatment.

The psychosocial impacts of breast cancer are profound and multifaceted, necessitating a comprehensive approach to care that addresses emotional, psychological, and social needs. At the Weiser Family Center for Breast Cancer, we understand by leveraging a range of support services and resources, breast cancer patients can better cope with their diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment phases, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Further reading:

• Tumor Receptors & Breast Cancer
• Aromatase Inhibitors Musculoskeletal Symptoms (AIMSS)
• Breast Cancer & Sexual Health
• Breast Cancer & Young Women
• Breast Cancer & Older Adults
• Psychosocial Support for Breast Cancer
• Lumpectomy & Axillary Surgery: A Patient Care Guide for Before and After Surgery

• Lumpectomy & Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: A Patient Care Guide for Before and After Surgery

• Mastectomy: A Patient Care Guide for Before and After Surgery

• Mastectomy & Axillary Surgery: A Patient Care Guide for Before and After Surgery

• Axillary Surgery: A Patient Care Guide for Before and After Surgery

   

Related services offered by U-M Health:

• Weiser Family Center for Breast Cancer Peer Mentoring Program
• Lymphedema Screening and Early Detection Program
• Support Services