Senology
What is Senology?
Senology is the medical specialty that focuses on the study and care of the breasts, particularly aimed at diagnosing and treating breast diseases.
It encompasses various aspects of breast health, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for both benign and malignant breast conditions.
At the Mirha Center, we also provide the best care in breast pathology, both in terms of diagnosis, prevention and in terms of treatment (both medical and surgical).
This can involve benign problems, such as:
Breast infections
Breast abscesses
Benign breast tumors such as cysts, fibroadenomas
We also offer screening and treatment of malignant conditions/
breast cancer within our team.
If we detect breast cancer, we always collaborate with our
colleagues from the certified breast clinic at CHIREC - Hôpital Delta.
Prevention and screening
Prevention is essential when it comes to breast health. Regular self-examinations and screening tests, such as mammograms and ultrasounds, can help detect breast conditions early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Our team of senologists encourages women to make regular screening appointments and take their breast health seriously.
How to perform a breast self-exam?
Normal variations in breast tissue during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy
Menstrual cycle
Every month, women undergo hormonal changes that are part of a normal menstrual cycle. Your breasts, therefore, undergo changes during a normal menstrual cycle, which affect how your breasts look and feel.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, breasts undergo changes due to increased hormone levels to prepare for breastfeeding. It is completely normal for your breasts to look or feel different during pregnancy.
Most pregnancies cause the areola to darken, the breast to enlarge, and certain glands to become more prominent. This indicates that the body is ready for breastfeeding.
What should you do if you feel something unusual?
In the meantime, don't panic.
A lump found by self-examination is not always synonymous with breast cancer; cysts can also feel like a lump.
But any lump discovered should be examined by a doctor.
Diagnostics
In cases of suspected breast diseases, an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Our experienced senologists use advanced diagnostic techniques, such as biopsies and imaging tests, to make an accurate diagnosis. We then work with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan, utilizing the latest treatment methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy.
Advanced imaging techniques
Senologists use advanced imaging techniques, such as digital mammography, ultrasound, and MRI scans, to obtain a detailed view of breast tissues. These techniques help in identifying abnormalities, such as tumors, cysts, and other changes in the breast.
Biopsies and Histopathological Evaluation
When an abnormality is detected, a biopsy can be performed to obtain tissue samples for histopathological evaluation. This process involves analyzing the cells and tissues under a microscope to determine the nature of the abnormality, such as establishing whether it is a benign or malignant condition.
Genetic Testing
In some cases, genetic testing can be performed to determine if an individual has an increased risk of developing breast cancer due to hereditary genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Treatment
Treatment in senology is more than just combating disease; it is a holistic approach focused on restoring health, promoting recovery, and improving quality of life.
Our approach includes a comprehensive range of treatment modalities, from surgical procedures to medication therapies and complementary supportive care. Each treatment is carefully tailored to individual needs and circumstances, aiming to provide an effective and personalized care experience.
Surgery
Depending on the nature and extent of the breast condition, surgery may be recommended as part of the treatment. This can include the removal of a tumor (lumpectomy), part of the breast (partial mastectomy), or the entire breast (mastectomy). Sometimes reconstructive surgery is also considered to restore the appearance of the breast after surgery.
Medical treatment
For breast conditions such as breast cancer, various medical treatments can be used, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. These treatments can be used to complement surgery or as the primary treatment, depending on the patient's specific situation.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It can also be used as a primary treatment for breast cancer in combination with other therapies.
Aftercare and Support
Our care does not stop after treatment. We provide comprehensive aftercare and support to our patients during their recovery process. This includes regular follow-up appointments, psychosocial support, and assistance in managing any side effects of the treatment. Our goal is to help each patient lead a healthy and fulfilling life after their experience with breast conditions.
These approaches within the diagnostics and treatment of senology are designed to provide patients with a comprehensive and personalized care experience, aiming to achieve the best outcomes for their breast health.
The Importance of Awareness
Finally, we emphasize the importance of awareness when it comes to breast health.
By sharing information, promoting education, and supporting research on breast diseases, we aim to increase awareness and reduce the impact of these conditions.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of women.