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Importance of Accurate Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a significant public health concern in Kenya, with a rising incidence and mortality rate. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of this disease.
Laboratory testing plays a vital role in the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer, providing valuable information to healthcare professionals for effective management and treatment.
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Screening Tests
- Mammography: Mammography is the primary screening tool for breast cancer. It involves taking low-dose X-ray images of the breast, which can detect tumours or abnormalities before they can be felt during a physical examination.
- Clinical Breast Examination (CBE): CBE is a physical examination performed by a healthcare professional to detect any lumps, thickening, or changes in the breast tissue.
- Breast Self-Examination (BSE): BSE is a technique that women can use to examine their breasts regularly for any changes or abnormalities.
Diagnostic Tests for Breast Cancer
1. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC):
FNAC is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a thin needle to extract cells from a suspicious lump or mass in the breast. The extracted cells are then examined under a microscope for signs of malignancy.
2. Core Needle Biopsy:
A core needle biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of breast tissue is removed using a hollow needle. The tissue sample is then examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells.
Read more: ▶️▶️▶️Role of Biopsy in Cancer Diagnosis
3. Hormone Receptor Testing:
Hormone receptor testing is performed on breast cancer tissue samples to determine if the cancer cells have receptors for the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This information helps guide treatment decisions and predict the likelihood of response to hormone therapy.
Read more: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) in Breast cancer Diagnosis
4. HER-2 Marker Testing:
HER2 testing is used to determine if breast cancer cells have an excess of the Human Epidermal Receptor 2 (HER-2) protein, which can promote the growth of cancer cells. HER2-positive breast cancers may respond differently to certain treatments compared to HER2-negative cancers. These tumours are eligible for treatment with targeted therapy such as Herceptin
Explainer: What is Triple Negative Breast (TNB) Cancer
We utilize the immunohistochemistry technique to check for these receptors
5. Genomic Testing:
Genomic testing analyzes the genes and gene expression patterns of breast cancer cells to provide information about the tumour’s behaviour and response to treatment. This can help guide treatment decisions and predict the risk of recurrence.
Common genomic tests for breast cancer include BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations
Wraping Up on Iportance of Screening and Early Diagnosis
Laboratory testing plays a crucial role in the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer in Kenya. By utilizing a combination of screening tests, diagnostic procedures, and molecular analyses, healthcare professionals can detect breast cancer early, accurately diagnose the disease, and develop personalized treatment plans to improve patient outcomes. Continued efforts to increase access to these essential laboratory services and to raise awareness about the importance of regular breast cancer screening are crucial for reducing the burden of this disease in Kenya.
