PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF BREAST CANCER

EtiologyUnknown

Somatic mutations in the DNA

Activate oncogene / deactivate tumor suppressor gene

Neoplasm formation in the breast

PREDISPOSING FACTORS:

Genetics

Hormonal factors

Age

Gender

Family history

PRECIPITATING FACTORS:

Radiation exposureFat intake and Obesity

Alcohol useCigarette Smoking

Intake of Contraceptive Pills

Primary tumor begins in the breast

Travel to other organ system

Progressed beyond the breast to regional lymph node.

Tumor becomes invasive

If treated: -Surgery-Chemotherapy-Radiotherapy

Cancer cell destroyed

If not treated

Compromise the functions of the major organs

DEATH