Breast cancer symptoms are varied and often include a lump in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size, weight loss, and pain or discomfort around the breast. Here are some less common signs that resemble other benign breast conditions and are easily overlooked.

Nipple discharge can be caused by several conditions such as mastitis, breastfeeding injuries, hormonal changes, and infections. Sometimes, discharge occurs during breastfeeding and is often mistaken for milk. However, nipple discharge can be a warning sign of early-stage breast cancer, especially ductal carcinoma or Paget's disease of the nipple. In such cases, doctors recommend a mammogram to detect small spreading spots.

Bloody nipple discharge can be a sign of breast cancer if accompanied by other symptoms like a painful lump in the breast, changes in breast shape, inflammation, or infection. However, most cases of bloody nipple discharge are benign, caused by intraductal papillomas, non-cancerous growths in the milk ducts, or duct ectasia, which causes fluid buildup. Tight clothing rubbing against the breast, especially during physical activity, can also lead to bleeding.

Swollen lymph nodes are clusters of cells that help the body filter and destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful agents. Although less common, swollen lymph nodes can also be due to breast cancer. In this case, the swollen lymph nodes appear near the armpit or collarbone and are easily palpable along with a larger lump in the breast.

Itchy nipples are a common occurrence and usually resolve on their own or with anti-itch creams. This is a symptom of benign breast conditions. However, patients with Paget's disease, a rare type of breast cancer, are prone to itchy nipples. Other symptoms of Paget's disease include tingling or redness of the nipple, flaky or scaly skin, thickened skin, and yellow or bloody discharge. The symptoms of Paget's disease can resemble other skin conditions like dermatitis or eczema, so they are often overlooked.

Breast tenderness and swelling often occur due to infection or aging, but can also be caused by inflammatory breast cancer. This rare type of cancer usually doesn't form a lump. Instead, the breast undergoes rapid changes such as becoming softer, the skin turning red or purple, the breast area feeling warmer than usual, having a dimpled appearance like an orange peel, and experiencing pain or sensitivity. Inflammatory breast cancer cells block the lymphatic vessels of the breast, which drain excess fluid. This blockage leads to fluid buildup, causing the typical symptoms.

Anh Chi (WebMD)