Scared of IBC

scared21yo

Hi guys,

I'm 21 years old and scared that I may have IBC. I know highly doubtful due to my age, but I figured I'd post here to get some peace of mind or ideas about next steps. Basically, I got a bright red rash on my breast in two spots about 3 weeks ago, and they were definitely inflamed. They have since faded into a slightly pinkish purple color and are fairly light now without any inflammation, however they are still persisting. I saw a doctor who told me not to worry and to use hydrocortisone and see what happened, however these spots have not subsided.

I know IBC usually persists quickly, however one woman did post about red spots that did fade and she was still diagnosed. I haven't ever had a mammogram or anything of that sort as I am very young, however would this be an appropriate course of action?

I also should note that my mother had breast cancer, stage 1 and it occurred when she was around 55. It was not IBC.

Do I have reason to be concerned? Or am I just being anxious over what could be a simple skin rash?

Thanks!

MelissaDallas

IBC would not have faded. It would have rapidly progressed-often in hours.

Mammograms are essentially unreadable in very young women with very dense breasts.

Most skin issues, regardless of location, are just that-skin issues. If that same rash were on your arm would you be concerned it was cancer? I would believe my doctor. Anytime I have a rash (or even bad pimple) it leaves a darker area for a while after it resolves

scared21yo

@MelissaDallas Thank you for your response, it does give me some peace of mind. I did forget to mention though that the spots were along the circumfrence of my nipple. Not sure if that changes anything,

MelissaDallas

Do you know how very rare it is for someone your age to have breast cancer?

I know you worry because of your mom, but you should talk to your doctor about at what age you should begin screenings and what kind of screenings those should be. I’m pretty certain it will not be until you are considerably older, even with family history. It would be more worrisome if your mom had cancer at 30