Bruise on Breast near Nipple - IBC?

Momof2boysOHIO

Hi there, 

I am a 29 year old, mother of two (3 yrs and 5 months), currently breastfeeding. History of triple negative breast cancer in my family. I recently discovered an odd bruise on my left breast (pictured). It seems that everyone presents with different symptoms, but has anyone here had anything like this show up? I do not have any recollection of being elbowed in the breast or mauled by one of my kids. I have slight warmth and achiness, but it is usually after pumping and that is probably not my boob's favorite activity anyhow. 

It is very disconcerting when googling 'bruise' +'breast' and all you get are sites about IBC. Darn Google

Anyhow, I know that no one can give me a diagnosis, but I am just looking for some reassurance to calm down or encouragement to be very proactive. I have an appt with OBGYN tomorow at 10am but as a mother of little ones, I am willing to be as proactive as possible because I know how aggressive certain types of BC can be. 

Most of all, lots of love, encouragement and strength to all those here struggling with this disease. 

Edited by Mods to remove photo. Please note we do not recommend posting any pictures, as nothing can be diagnosed from a photo. If you have concerns, you're advised to seek medical attention.

Kicks

IBC is rare - only between 1% - 5% of ALL DXd BCs.  Thus, it is highly unlikely to be IBC but is possible so be sure to see your DR sooner better than later.

There are many possibilities for skin issues that have nothing to do with BC of any type.  You are,correct that IBC do present differently with different ones of us.  While it does often present as rash/reddened skin first - it does not always.  For myself, the first 'sign' was a node that enlarged to the size of an almond literally overnight.  I never did develope reddened skin.

I do succeed in getting bruises, often in 'strange' places that I have no clue how they got there - it happens.  Be sure to see your Dr though to be safe.

anneoftheforest

Hello,

I've never had IBC but I did nurse my three boys for almost two years each.  If you are pumping a lot sometimes you can get a plugged duct.  Even without pumping very often I was prone to get plugged ducts when I would wear a tight fitting bra or was wearing something that put pressure on my breasts (handbag, sling).  The area would get warm and red and it would ache when I nursed.  A couple times I got mastitis as well but that was when it turned into a fever and became really painful.  

If it is a plugged duct you want to try and drain it so it doesn't turn into full blown mastitis.  Baby does a better job than pumping.  So try and offer that side often if you can and use heat on the affected site as well such as a warm wash cloth or a hot shower.  One trick that works really well for clearing a plugged duct but is kind of awkward is to nurse on all fours.  It really works but is kind of embarrassing

I hope this it all it is and nothing worse.  I'm glad you have a doctor's appt. to put your mind at ease.  Dr. Google always seems to stir things up.  I totally understand!!

Momof2boysOHIO

Thanks to both of you for your thoughts and for putting my mind at ease. I will keep my appointment tomorrow. anneoftheforest, I am cracking up at the idea of nursing on all fours, but I will try it!

Thinking of you both and sending thoughts of healing. I will update!