Breast Cancers
Overview
Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the breast, milk ducts (ductal carcinoma), or the glands that produce milk (lobular carcinoma). It can develop in one or both breasts and can be diagnosed in anyone with breast tissue, although it is rare in children and males.
Common classifications of breast cancer include in situ (non-invasive), invasive, and inflammatory breast cancer. Breast cancer is also defined by the presence or absence of specific receptors on tumor cells, including HER2, estrogen (ER+), and progesterone (PR+) receptors. Tumors that do not express these receptors are classified as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care for patients with breast cancer. We combine advanced imaging, genetic counseling, specialized surgical care, medical and radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's diagnosis and needs.
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We can connect you with the cancer care resources you need.
Meet Our Providers Who Treat Breast Cancers
Our multidisciplinary teams bring together nationally recognized specialists, advanced diagnostics, and the latest therapies to design a treatment plan built around each patient's diagnosis, goals, and life.
Guides & Resources
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network is a trusted partner of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients provide prognostic and treatment information for major types of adult and some childhood cancers.
Conditions We Treat
Search Breast Cancer Clinical Trials
Access hundreds of open studies, including early-phase trials and therapies not yet widely available, matched to your diagnosis.
News on Breast Cancer
Cancer
Breast cancer atlas helps chart course for precision oncology
The new map integrates data from more than 7,600 tumors across 22 independent studies and reveals previously hidden forms of breast cancer that differ in prognosis, biology and…
Cancer
Vanderbilt Health researchers receive ‘Mars Shot’ award to improve invasive breast cancer diagnosis
Approximately 48,000 women are diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma in the United States each year, yet the disease remains “underappreciated and under-researched.
Cancer
Cassandra Chaytor uses her breast cancer experience to support patients, families and her community
She hopes others will join her in participating in or contributing to Team Vanderbilt’s efforts at this year’s Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk, on Oct. 3.
Innovative & Advanced Care
No two cancers are exactly alike. That’s why Vanderbilt-Ingram offers the full spectrum of cancer treatments — from innovative therapies to precision medicine, advanced surgical techniques, and clinical trials. Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual patient.
Care That’s Centered Around You
Patient & Family Resources
Access support programs, educational resources, and services designed to help patients and caregivers navigate cancer care.
Your Care With Us
Learn what to expect before, during, and after treatment, including appointments, support services and survivorship resources.
Living With & After Cancer
Treating cancer can require additional interventions and rehab. Our specialists care for your whole self, not simply one part of the body.
We’re Here to Help
Whether you're newly diagnosed, seeking a second opinion, or exploring treatment options, our team is ready to connect you with the care and resources you need.