Scientist discover early warning sign breast cancer could spread
How to check for breast cancer
New research has identified specific structural changes within lymph nodes that can predict the likelihood of breast cancer spreading.
These changes in the lymph node’s intricate network, specifically involving fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC), can occur even before cancer cells are visible.
The study found that some structural shifts were linked to improved survival chances, while others indicated a worse prognosis, offering insights for tailored treatment.
Funded by Breast Cancer Now, these findings could lead to more personalised treatment decisions, potentially helping patients avoid unnecessary lymph node removal and associated side effects like lymphoedema.
Experts believe this research could help identify individuals at higher or lower risk of breast cancer progression, paving the way for new targeted therapies.
