Breast Cancer
R M. is a 72-year-old female who went to her health care provider with a complaint of “feeling tightness” around a lump in her right breast. She has a history of hypertension and smoking (25 pack-year history).
Subjective Data
- Has a family history of breast cancer-one sister recently had lumpectomy and radiation therapy. Mother and aunt died from breast cancer when they were in their 60s.
- Has had history of “lumpy” breasts, but this lump feels “different”
- Says she cannot quit smoking because of all of the stress in her life. Her husband recently left her, and she has not seen her two daughters in more than 6 months.
- She spends most of her time watching TV
Objective Data
Physical Examination
- 5’9”, 205 lb
- Blood pressure 165/100, pulse 76, respirations 20, temperature 98.8°F
- Palpable mass in right breast in upper outer quadrant
Diagnostic Studies
- Bilateral mammogram and ultrasound of right breast
Case Study Progress
R.M. goes to her follow-up visit and is told that the mammogram and ultrasound show a 4-cm mass. She undergoes a core needle biopsy. The results indicate that the mass is infiltrating lobular carcinoma. She undergoes a lumpectomy and axillary lymph node dissection. Six of 15 axillary lymph nodes are positive for cancer. Two weeks after surgery, she is being seen to discuss further treatment options.
