Answer:

A chest indentation, where the breast tissue sinks and the skin becomes dimpled or uneven, can be caused by malignant cells blocking lymph vessels in the skin. This symptom can be a warning sign of inflammatory breast cancer, a rare but dangerous form of the disease, accounting for 1-5% of all breast cancer cases.

Some signs of breast cancer-related dimpling include redness, swelling, and sudden, rough, or pitted skin. Redness may cover at least a third of the breast, accompanied by a sudden feeling of heat. Malignant tumors tend to grow new blood vessels to obtain more nutrients. As the tumor grows, it invades the connective tissue and ligaments that support the breast, pulling on the surrounding skin and causing dimpling or nipple retraction. However, not all breast dimpling is caused by cancer. Other causes include fat necrosis (death of fatty tissue in the breast) and breast surgery.

Doctor Vinh consults with a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Vinh consults with a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

It's recommended to consult a specialist in Breast and Head and Neck Surgery for a proper examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Breast cancer is common and on the rise. Women should regularly check their breasts. If you notice any unusual signs, such as dimpling, rashes, swelling, lumps in the breast or armpit, or peeling skin, seek medical attention immediately. Women 40 and older should have a mammogram twice a year for early detection.

Dr. Le Ngoc Vinh

Breast and Head and Neck Surgery Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM