Publication: Benign and malignant breast disease presenting to Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital
Date
2005
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Objective: In the absence of formal breast screening services in Nepal, patients must self present upon developing
symptoms relating to the breast. Clinical examination and diagnostic tests are then used to differentiate benign and
malignant conditions. Referral / presentation patterns are not well studied and this paper aims to investigate this.
Method: Here we present the clinico-pathological diagnoses of patients presenting to Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital
with breast related complaints within a six month period, and report upon their subsequent management.
Results: 727 patients presented with breast related complaints, of whom 34 were diagnosed with breast cancer.
These tended to present at late stage and their subsequent management is discussed.
Conclusion: As the incidence of breast cancer in Nepal is likely to be under-reported and more than likely rising,
patient awareness campaigns are underway in order to facilitate the earlier diagnosis of malignant disease and thus
beneficially influence treatment outcomes. To this end the need for the development of dedicated breast services is
highlighted.