Skin cancer on the breast is rare, as most skin cancers develop on areas of the body that see frequent sun exposure. However, it is possible for melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancer to appear on the breast, and it’s important not to overlook unusual skin changes in this area. It’s also quite uncommon for breast cancer lesions on skin to appear, as there are many differences between skin cancer vs. breast cancer. Still, staying aware of any changes to your skin throughout the entire body is always recommended for optimal skin health.
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like on Breasts?
While finding melanoma skin cancer on the breast is more rare, it is not impossible. Melanoma (the most deadly of the three types of skin cancer) can develop anywhere on the body,, including areas like the chest and breast that are often overlooked during personal skin checks. It is the more deadly of the three types of skin cancer, mainly because it is more likely to spread to surrounding areas. Melanoma begins as a mole-like spot that over time begins to change in color, shape, or size. If you’re wondering, “Is this mole on my breast cancer?” it’s crucial to observe it closely for any visible changes. Should you find a mole on your breast, make note of its current appearance and watch for any major developments.
Melanoma and breast cancer can share the same gene defect in some cases. People with breast cancer are at an increased risk of developing melanoma. Understanding the difference between breast cancer skin changes and melanoma can guide better decisions about when to seek care. Scheduling an annual skin cancer screening is a smart way to stay ahead of any issues, as your dermatologist will keep track of any changes to your breast skin.
Breast Skin Cancer Prevention: When to Be Concerned
If you notice anything unusual on your skin, use the ABCDE method to keep tabs on it. This is especially important when monitoring a mole on the breast, as early detection can make a critical difference. Anything out of the ordinary should be examined by your dermatologist.
- “A” is for Asymmetry. Melanoma is often asymmetrical, whereas benign moles are uniformly shaped.
- “B” is for Border. Cancerous moles typically have jagged or poorly defined borders.
- “C” is for Color. Can you see more than one color in the mole (e.g. tan, black, pink, white, blue, red, or purple)? Color changes are also a cause for concern.
- “D” is for Diameter. Cancerous moles are usually larger in size than common moles.
- “E” is for Evolving. Moles that change size, shape, or color, or become itchy or painful, are evolving and should be examined. If you’re questioning whether a mole on your breast could be cancer, tracking how it’s evolving is one of the clearest ways to decide when to consult a specialist.
GentleCure Treatment for Common Skin Cancers
GentleCure™ is a surgery-free treatment for people with common skin cancers, such as squamous cell and basal cell skin cancer. Discover how it works or call our skin cancer information specialist team at 855-485-1659 to learn more.
Skin Cancer vs. Breast Cancer
Skin cancer on breasts is possible, but that does not automatically mean the patient has breast cancer. There are many factors that separate skin cancer vs. breast cancer. Skin cancer develops in the topmost layers of the epidermis, caused by abnormal skin cell production. Recognizing skin cancer symptoms on the breast—such as unusual moles, lesions, or sores—is crucial for early diagnosis. This is often triggered by excessive environmental stimuli that the skin tries to counteract; overexposure to sunlight is the most common culprit of skin cancer. While the three types of skin cancer often start near the surface of the skin, they can penetrate deeper if left undetected, potentially spreading to surrounding tissue.
Breast cancer, on the other hand, always starts with tumors growing deep in the breast tissue. Hormonal and genetic factors contribute to breast cancer development, though the exact cause is unknown. While the most common early symptom of breast cancer is finding a hard lump in the breast, skin changes caused by breast cancer can potentially have some effects on the surrounding skin, including:
- Dimpling of the breast skin
- Peeling or crusting around the areola or nipple
- Redness of the breast skin
While none of these symptoms constitute a breast cancer lesion on skin, it’s important to note that any significant changes to your skin should be treated with caution. If you’re unsure whether a skin change on the breast is related to skin cancer or breast cancer, it’s best to consult a specialist who can distinguish between the two. Drastic physical changes can signal internal issues, and should be addressed by a physician as soon as possible.
Melanoma Skin Cancer on Breast
While finding melanoma skin cancer on the breast is more rare, it is not impossible. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, and is the more deadly of the three types of skin cancer, mainly because it is more likely to spread to surrounding areas.
Melanoma begins as a mole-like spot that over time begins to change in color, shape, or size. Should you find a mole on your breast, make note of its current appearance and watch for any major developments. This is especially important if you’re unsure whether the mole is cancer or not, as breast-area melanomas may appear less obvious. Scheduling an annual skin cancer screening is a smart way to stay ahead of any issues, as your dermatologist will keep track of any changes to your breast skin. Be sure to share any personal or family history of breast cancer with your dermatologist, as certain genetic factors (such as BRCA mutations) can raise the risk for both breast cancer and melanoma.
FAQ
Yes, skin cancer can appear on the breast, even though it’s a less common location. It may look like a mole, lesion, or sore on the skin’s surface.
No. Most moles are benign, but if a mole on your breast changes in color, shape, size, or texture, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Skin cancer affects the surface of the skin and often appears as changing moles or lesions. Breast cancer typically starts deeper in the tissue and presents as lumps or internal changes.
Melanoma on the breast may look like a dark, irregular mole that changes over time. Use the ABCDE method to monitor it: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving.
Not always. Non-surgical options like GentleCure/Image-Guided SRT offer effective treatment with no cutting or scarring, especially for non-melanoma skin cancers. Your doctor will work with you to determine your best treatment option.
See a doctor if a mole becomes larger, changes shape or color, itches, bleeds, or doesn’t heal. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
GentleCure Treatment for Common Skin Cancers
GentleCure™ is a surgery-free treatment for people with common skin cancers, such as squamous cell and basal cell skin cancer. Discover how it works or call our skin cancer information specialist team at 855-936-4411 to learn more.
