PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

It is also known as Paget’s disease of the breast which is a rare type of breast cancer.

The term Paget’s disease of the nipple is used to distinguish the condition from Paget’s disease of the bone, which occurs when the normal cycle of bone growth is disrupted, leading to the bones becoming weak and deformed.

SYMPTOMS OF PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

1.It usually affects the skin of one nipple and produces eczema-like symptoms, appearing as an itchy, red rash on the nipple that can extend to the darker area of surrounding skin (the areola).

2.It can also appear as a small ulcer or dry, red, flaky patches of skin similar to psoriasis.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Itchiness or a burning sensation alongside visible changes to the nipple
• Bleeding from the skin of the nipple

If one experiences itchiness, burning or bleeding but the nipple looks normal and is not red, dry or scaly – this is extremely unlikely to be Paget's disease but should still be checked by a doctor.

CAUSES OF PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

Paget’s disease is usually a sign of breast cancer in tissue behind the nipple, or breast tissue away from the nipple.

The breast cancer can either be:

• Invasive – where cancerous cells invade the surrounding breast tissue
• Non-invasive – where the cancerous cells are contained in one or more areas of the breast and are unable to spread

In a small amount of cases, the only evidence of Paget's disease is the nipple changes.

In about half of all cases of Paget’s disease of the nipple, a lump is found in the breast. The majority of people with a lump will have invasive breast cancer, although this does not necessarily mean it has spread.

Most people with Paget's disease of the nipple who do not have a lump will have non-invasive breast cancer.

DIAGNOSIS OF PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

• If one notice any changes in the skin of their nipple or areola (the darker area of skin around the nipple) they must consult with doctor
• As it is a form of breast cancer, the sooner it gets diagnosed, the better the outcome is likely to be.
• If one develop a lump in their breast. it is important to checked it out.

PREVENTION OF PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

Modifying certain lifestyle factors, such as reducing alcohol intake and regular exercise, may reduce risk of developing certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.

RISK FACTOR

There are a number of factors that can increase  risk of developing breast cancer. These include:

• Age – Risk of developing breast cancer increases as one get older
• Family History – If one have a number of close relatives with breast cancer, their chances of developing the condition are increased
• Previously being diagnosed with breast cancer
• Previously having a benign breast lump – certain types of benign lump may slightly increase risk but this is only seen in a small number of women
• Being overweight – which is especially significant in post-menopausal women
• Alcohol – Risk of developing breast cancer can increase with the amount of alcohol  drink

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT FOR PAGET'S DISEASE OF NIPPLE

CONIUM MAC

Useful when patients suffering from  breast cancer as a hard tumor with piercing pain and stitches are felt in the breast and nipples upon breathing or doing any physical activity.

ASTERIAS RUBENS

It is given to patients in the ulcerative stage when the patient suffers from acute pain in the breasts.There is swelling of the breasts.Also useful for retracted nipples.

ARSENIC ALBUM

Very effective in the treatment of breast cancer in which there is an open ulcer with furious discharge.There is pain with restlessness. Mostly recommended when patient would lose all hope to live.

ANTIM CRUDE

Given to patients with an open ulcer in the breasts with discharge. Recommended when patient feels itching and a burning sensation in the chest.

PSORINUM

Very useful in the treatment of breast cancer with open ulcers. There is acute pain with burning sensation.Given when breasts are swollen with red nipples.

PHYTOLACCA D

Excellent homeopathic medicine for the treatment of breast cancer when the breast is hard. There is bloody discharge is seen from the breasts and the nipples are cracked. 

THUJA

Very useful medicine for patients with retracted nipples.

MALANDRINUM

Very useful in the primary stage and shrinkage of the cancerous deposit.