What should you know about diagnosing IBC?

Inflammatory breast cancer can cause rapid breast swelling, redness, warmth, skin thickening or an orange-peel texture. The breast may feel heavy or tender, and a distinct lump is not always present. These changes can resemble infection or another breast condition, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

A clinician may examine both breasts and the nearby lymph nodes, then arrange diagnostic mammography and ultrasound. An MRI may be considered when more detail is needed. A core needle biopsy is used to identify cancer cells and may provide information about tumour features. Imaging can also help assess lymph nodes and the extent of the breast changes.

Arrange an urgent appointment with a doctor or breast clinic if breast redness, swelling or skin change is new, spreading or not settling. Take a clear timeline of when the change began, whether it progressed quickly, and any fever, nipple change or discharge. Mention pregnancy, breastfeeding, recent injury, medicines and previous breast problems.

Do not wait for a routine screening appointment to investigate a new change. If an infection is considered, follow-up is still needed when symptoms do not improve as expected. Bring any previous breast imaging reports if available.

Seek same-day medical advice for rapidly worsening breast redness or swelling, severe pain, fever, feeling faint or marked illness. Go to emergency care for difficulty breathing, confusion, collapse or chest pressure. A breast change without these emergency features still deserves prompt assessment, especially when it develops quickly or affects one breast.

Ask which diagnoses are being considered, which imaging test is planned, whether a biopsy is needed, how lymph nodes will be assessed, and when you should expect results. Ask what changes should prompt an earlier review while you wait.