Tubular breast cancer

Tubular breast cancer is a form of invasive breast cancer, meaning it can spread to other areas of the body. However, this type tends to spread less frequently than other invasive breast cancers because its cells appear normal and grow more slowly.

Our team of breast cancer experts at the Advocate Cancer Institute provides the best care in Illinois, utilizing the most up-to-date cancer care technology, including genetic testing and access to new clinical trials.

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Risk factors of tubular breast cancer

While the exact cause of tubular breast cancer is unknown, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Early menstruation and late menopause: Starting menstruation before age 12 or entering menopause after age 55 increases your risk.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Long-term use during menopause can increase your risk.
• Age: It’s more common in women over 50.
• Family history: A history of breast cancer in your family can raise your risk, although tubular breast cancer itself is not typically hereditary.
• Lifestyle factors: Alcohol use, lack of exercise and obesity can contribute to your risk.

Stages of breast cancer

Breast cancer stages are determined by the tumor size and the extent of its spread, ranging from 0 to 4:

• Stage 0: Non-invasive and confined to the breast ducts – also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
• Stage 1: Early invasive cancer, with a tumor up to two centimeters and no spread outside the breast.
• Stage 2: Tumor between two and five centimeters, or spread to a few nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage 3: Locally advanced cancer, with a tumor larger than five centimeters or spread to several lymph nodes or nearby tissues.
• Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body like bones, liver or lungs (metastatic cancer).

Tubular breast cancer grade

The grade of tubular breast cancer is determined by examining the cancer cells under a microscope:

• Grade 1 (low grade): Cells closely resemble normal breast cells, grow slowly and are less aggressive.
• Grade 2 (intermediate grade): Cells show some abnormalities and grow and spread at a moderate pace.
• Grade 3 (high grade): Cells appear very different from normal cells, grow quickly and are more aggressive.

Signs of tubular breast cancer

In its early stages, tubular breast cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. However, signs to watch for include:

• A small, firm lump that’s easy to move under the skin
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Skin dimpling, puckering or redness
• Nipple discharge, inversion or changes in appearance

Early detection through regular mammograms or monthly self-exams is vital.

Diagnosing tubular breast cancer

Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging tests and a biopsy. Your doctor will assess your symptoms, medical history and risk factors.

If breast cancer is suspected, additional tests might include:

• Imaging tests: CT scans, an MRI, bone scans and PET scans are used to visualize the tumor’s size and location.
• Biopsy: Removing a tissue sample using a needle or surgery to examine under a microscope is the definitive way to diagnose tubular breast cancer.

A pathologist will look for tube-like structures that are characteristic of tubular breast cancer.

Tubular breast cancer treatment

Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, radiation and sometimes hormone therapy, depending on the cancer’s stage and characteristics:

• Surgery: Lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and some surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
• Radiation therapy: Used post-surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk.
• Hormone therapy: For hormone receptor-positive cancer, medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors may be used to block hormones and stop cancer growth.
• Chemotherapy: Less common for tubular breast cancer, but it may be recommended if cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other areas.

Your care team at Advocate Health Care will provide a collaborative approach to treatment, including supportive services like counseling, nutrition therapy, palliative care and physical therapy. These services help manage the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment.

What is the recurrence rate of tubular breast cancer?

Tubular breast cancer has a relatively low recurrence rate and a better prognosis compared to other invasive breast cancers. Recurrence rates depend on factors like the cancer stage at diagnosis and treatments received. While the overall outlook is positive, regular follow-up care and monitoring are crucial to catching any recurrence early.