Breast cancer can be witnessed both in men and women and it is visible in different areas of the breast, including the milk-producing ducts and glands. Depending on the origin and occurrence of breast cancer, different types of breast cancer can be distinguished. Breast cancers tend to be carcinomas in nature in which tumors are found in epithelial cells. This lines up tissues and organs in the body.

Adenocarcinoma is a type of carcinoma breast cancer which occurs in the cells, making up the glandular tissues. The other types are phyllodes, angiosarcomas, sarcomas, and Paget’s disease. They appear in the connective tissues and cells of fat and muscles.

A biopsy is done to determine the particular type of breast cancer in an individual. During a biopsy, the pathologist also checks whether the cancer has spread to the surrounding tissues or not.

The various types of breast cancer can include the following:

1. Phyllodes
This type of breast cancer includes phyllodes, which is a rare form of breast tumor that are shaped like leaves. Phyllodes is a Greek word which means leaf-like. These tumors grow quickly but do not spread beyond the area of the breast. This tumor can occur at any age but is mostly seen in women aged between 35-55 years. The malignant or benign nature of the tumor makes it ideal for surgery to stop further growth. Phyllodes tumor tends to be benign in young girls. They can also develop in males but this is rather rare.

2. Angiosarcomas
This type of cancer forms in the lining of the lymph vessels and blood vessels. This is rare and mainly occurs in the skin of your head and neck. Angiosarcoma can also occur in the skin of the breast or in deeper tissues, like the liver and heart. It can also occur in areas which were treated previously with radiation therapy. The treatment of this cancer depends on the location of its origin or occurrence. Treatments of this cancer include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

3. Sarcoma
This type of cancer can occur in various places in your body. It starts in the soft tissues and bones. Soft tissue sarcoma originates in the tissues that support, surround, and connect other body structures. It includes fat, nerves, muscle, blood vessels, lining, and tendons of your joints. Treatment of sarcoma depends on the location, type, and other factors.

4. Paget’s disease
This type of breast cancer interferes with the normal recycling process of the body where the old bone tissues are replaced by new ones. The disease makes the affected bones fragile and distorted. This disease mostly occurs in the skull, legs, spine, and pelvis. This disease can be hereditary. Additionally, the risk factor also increases with age. Bisphosphonates can strengthen bone health, but surgery may be necessary if a patient has complications.

Knowing the types of cancer will help you understand the symptoms of breast cancer. Be it invasive or non-invasive type of cancer, it can be cured if diagnosed at the right time.