Journey and Outlook for Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer Survivors

Understanding Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common type of breast cancer after invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). ILC starts in the milk-producing lobules of the breast before invading the surrounding tissue. While the prognosis is similar to IDC when caught early, ILC can be harder to detect and spreads differently. Understanding the nature of invasive lobular breast cancer can help those undergoing treatment know what to expect.

How ILC Spreads

Unlike ductal cancers which often form distinct lumps, invasive lobular cancer cells grow in single file lines that can infiltrate surrounding tissue in a diffuse pattern. This makes ILC tumors harder to feel distinctively on exams.

In addition, ILC tends to first metastasize to the gastrointestinal system, peritoneum, and gynecologic organs rather than the lungs and brain like IDC. This metastatic pattern can also make it more difficult to detect any spread of the cancer outside the breasts through scans.

Diagnosis and Detection

Due to the growth pattern of invasive lobular cancer, mammograms can be less effective at detecting it. ILC will often not form defined masses or calcifications. Instead, it may appear as architectural distortion on a mammogram.

If any abnormalities are seen, breast MRI is frequently utilized to better visualize any ILC tumors. Ultrasound imaging and breast biopsies will be performed to confirm diagnosis. Screening should continue at regular intervals after treatment because recurrences are common with ILC.

Hormone Receptor Status

Most invasive lobular breast cancers are hormone receptor positive, meaning the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen and/or progesterone. This causes the tumors to grow in response to those hormones. HR positive cancers can be treated with hormonal therapies like tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, or ovarian suppression.

Treatment Options

Treatment for ILC typically involves some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy. Most patients will have either a lumpectomy to remove the tumor while conserving the breast or a mastectomy to remove the entire breast. Axillary node dissection is common to check for any spread.

ILC cells lack cohesion, making them more prone to metastasize. Because of this risk, chemotherapy is frequently recommended even in early stage cases to try to eradicate any cells that have broken away from the primary tumor site.

Celebrities Who Have Had Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer

A number of celebrities have shared their personal ILC diagnoses and journeys to raise public awareness about this form of breast cancer. Their stories can provide hope and inspiration to others facing an invasive lobular carcinoma diagnosis.

Christina Applegate

In 2008, actress Christina Applegate announced she had been diagnosed with early-stage invasive lobular cancer at age 36. She initially underwent a lumpectomy and radiation, but eventually had both breasts removed preventively.

Applegate became an advocate for MRI screening, which is how her cancer was detected after her mammogram came back negative. She founded Right Action for Women to help cover MRI costs for those at high risk.

Cynthia Nixon

Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma in 2006 at age 40 after a routine mammogram. She underwent a lumpectomy and 6 1/2 weeks of radiation. Nixon has worked to promote regular screenings among young women and drew attention to the need for Medicaid coverage of mammograms.

Peggy Fleming

Olympic figure skating champion Peggy Fleming had surgery for invasive lobular cancer in 1998 after a lump was found at age 41. Her cancer was caught very early at stage 1. Fleming had a lumpectomy, followed by chemotherapy and tamoxifen to prevent recurrence.

Suzanne Somers

Actress and health advocate Suzanne Somers announced in 2000 that she was undergoing surgery and radiation after being diagnosed with ILC. Somers initially began alternative treatments involving Iscador injections but eventually had a lumpectomy. She takes preventive tamoxifen and has spoke openly about making dietary changes.

Kylie Minogue

Australian pop star Kylie Minogue was diagnosed with ILC at age 36 in 2005. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy. After initially misdiagnosing her cancer as benign, her doctor published a paper stressing the importance of biopsying any abnormalities.

Outlook for Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer Survivors

The survival rates for properly treated ILC are quite favorable, though slightly lower than for IDC. When detected early while still localized, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. If the ILC has spread regionally to lymph nodes, the rate drops to 72%. Once distant metastases occur, the 5-year rate is just 28%.

Regular screening and awareness of ILC warning signs is key for early diagnosis. ILC survivors face an ongoing risk of recurrence and require diligent follow-up exams. Support groups and hearing other patients' experiences can reassure survivors they are not alone on the path to wellness.

Being Informed

Learning as much as possible about invasive lobular breast cancer aids in making informed treatment decisions. Understanding the pattern of metastasis, hormone receptor status, and risk factors empowers patients to be active participants in their care team.

Reconstructive Surgery

Many ILC patients undergo mastectomies and wish to pursue breast reconstruction after recovery. Today's advanced techniques allow reconstructive surgery at the same time as mastectomy for immediate results. Discuss options like implants vs. natural tissue flaps with your surgical oncologist.

Managing Side Effects

Knowing potential side effects of surgery, radiation, chemo, and hormone therapy allows women to access help for problems like fatigue, hot flashes, nausea, pain, and neuropathy. Report all side effects so your treatment team can make adjustments to improve quality of life.

Making Lifestyle Changes

Healthy diet and exercise habits, stress reduction techniques, adequate sleep, and quitting smoking can help ILC survivors regain strength after treatments. Some also explore complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, and meditation during the healing process.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.