Breast Cancer: When To Call A Doctor

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When To Call a Doctor

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a painless lump. But, early breast cancer is often found on a mammogram before a lump can be felt. Other breast problems that need to be evaluated by a doctor include:

• A thickening in the breast or armpit.
• A change in the size or shape of the breast.
• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as a dimple or skin that looks like an orange peel.
• A change in the nipple, such as scaling of the skin, a nipple that turns in, or discharge or bleeding.
• A change in the color or feel of the skin around the nipple.

Any breast lump in an adult male is considered abnormal and needs to be evaluated by a doctor. ^{6, 7}

Watchful Waiting

If you notice any changes in your breasts, call your doctor to arrange for an evaluation.

Who To See

Health professionals who can perform a breast exam include a:

• Family medicine doctor.
• General practitioner.
• Gynecologist.
• Internist.
• General surgeonor a surgeon who specializes in diseases of the breast.
• Nurse practitioner.
• Physician assistant.

Mammograms are usually read by radiologists.

You may see a general surgeon, a breast surgeon, or a radiologist if further evaluation of a breast problem is needed.

Breast cancer is treated by surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment

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Last updated:	August 31, 2007
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology
Editors:	Cynthia Tank, Pat Truman