What is paget's disease?

Paget's disease is a special kind of cancer, the localization of which is concentrated in the nipple and areola. It was found that in 95% of cases this disease is associated with breast cancer. In the risk group are people in the age group of 50 years. Very rarely, Paget's cancer overcomes young 20-year-old girls. And from this disease is not insured and the male sex.

This term derives its name from the name of a specialist who first identified the changes that occur with the nipple in breast cancer. The name of this scientist is related to the Paget-Shreter syndrome, which involves the clogging of blood vessels and manifests itself in the form of acute pain, limb tumors, convulsions and discomfort when moving.

Until now, scientists can not come to a common opinion on the source of the disease. Their conclusions were divided into two main theories. According to the first, Paget's disease develops as a consequence of the formation of a breast tumor. As evidence, there are data that indicate that in most patients, in addition to nipple cancer, a tumor has been detected. Adherents of the second theory argue that Paget's disease is an independent disease, not provoked by anything.

The main symptomatic manifestations are external changes of the nipple: it acquires a pronounced red hue, flaking occurs and scales are formed. Unfortunately, at the first stage of the cancer development the symptoms are practically not noticeable and do not cause concern for the patient. A timely call to a doctor can greatly facilitate the process of recovery. And in the future, the symptoms may completely disappear, but it's too early to rejoice, because it's just a calm before the storm. The resumption of symptoms is carried out with more force, since now the person experiences severe itching of the nipples, burning and minor pain. Other symptoms include increased sensitivity, the presence of secretions.

At a primary examination, a specialist can detect the formation of small cones. If you ask for help on time, the cancer will affect only the nipple and the area around it. As a rule, these symptoms are manifested only on one mammary gland. In exceptional cases, cancer affects both breasts. There are situations when Paget's disease helped to detect a tumor with metastases to the lymph nodes, and this pattern is observed in half of the patients.

The tumor is not always associated with the nipple, because a deterioration in the state of an arolet can be accompanied by an increase in the tumor node. In men, this disease is more severe, as it is found much later. At the same time in the nipple region there is peeling and discoloration of the skin, the patient complains of severe itching and burning. When examined, there may be an increase or swelling of the lymph nodes.

To establish an accurate diagnosis, a skin biopsy is performed , and a sample of excreta is also examined. Based on the results of the tests, you can talk about the presence of the disease. With a positive diagnosis, the breast is examined for tumor formation. Previously, experts tried to protect themselves and the patient from inaccurate diagnosis, because the symptoms are very similar to dermatology, therefore, in the presence of suspicions, a waiting attitude was applied. During the year, people were simply examined, and, convinced of the correctness of their own conclusions, began treatment.

Often, doctors have to resort to the method of surgical intervention, since only it gives a guarantee of full recovery. With Paget's disease, the choice of a particular method of treatment is made depending on the specific stage of development.