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Can Fam Physician
Vol. 55, No. 1, January 2009, pp.25 - 31
Copyright © 2009 by The College of Family Physicians of Canada
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Clinical Review

Approach to inflammatory breast cancer

Andrea Molckovsky, MD, Barbara Fitzgerald, RN, Orit Freedman, MD, Ruth Heisey, MD and Mark Clemons, MD
Drs Molckovsky, Freedman, and Clemons and Ms Fitzgerald work in the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto, Ont, and in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto., Dr Heisey works in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto

Correspondence: Dr M. Clemons, University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, 610 University Ave, 5-205, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9; telephone 416 946-4534; e-mailmark.clemons{at}uhn.on.ca

OBJECTIVE To review the definition, clinical presentation, and management of inflammatory breast cancer in primary care.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION Relevant research and review articles, as well as personal experience of the authors practising in a specialized locally advanced breast cancer program at a comprehensive cancer centre. Evidence is levels II and III.

MAIN MESSAGE Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare disease that typically presents with a rapidly enlarging erythematous breast, often with no discernable breast mass. Identification of warning signs and recognition of clinical symptoms are crucial to prompt diagnosis and appropriate referral. Management in the primary care setting includes treatment of symptoms, psychosocial support, regular surveillance and follow-up, as well as palliative care.

CONCLUSION Family physicians are usually the entry point to the health care system and are well positioned to assess inflammation of the breast and recognize the warning signs of an underlying inflammatory breast cancer. They are also important members of the team that provides support for breast cancer patients and their families during treatment, follow-up, and end-of-life care.






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