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Breast Cancer - When To Call a Doctor

The most common symptom of Breast Cancer is a painless lump. But, early breast cancer is often found on a mammogram before a lump can be felt. Other breast problems that need to be evaluated by a doctor include:

  • A thickening in the breast or armpit.
  • A change in the size or shape of the breast.
  • Changes in the skin of the breast, such as a dimple or skin that looks like an orange peel.
  • A change in the nipple, such as scaling of the skin, a nipple that turns in, or discharge or bleeding.
  • A change in the color or feel of the skin around the nipple.

Any breast lump in an adult male is considered abnormal and needs to be evaluated by a doctor.6, 7

Watchful Waiting

If you notice any changes in your breasts, call your doctor to arrange for an evaluation.

Who To See

Health professionals who can perform a breast exam include a:

  • Family medicine doctor.
  • General practitioner.
  • Gynecologist.
  • Internist.
  • General surgeon or a surgeon who specializes in diseases of the breast.
  • Nurse practitioner.
  • Physician assistant.

Mammograms are usually read by radiologists.

You may see a general surgeon, a breast surgeon, or a radiologist if further evaluation of a breast problem is needed.

Breast Cancer is treated by surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment