Breast & Axilla

Breast

The main function of the breast is to produce milk. (female) This milk provides nutrition and essential immunities to newborns and infants.
The hormone prolactin stimulates the production of milk.
Oxytocin stimulates the release of milk from the glands.

Structures

Lobules-Producing Milk.
Ducts-Transfer milk from the lobules to the nipple.
Mammary Glands-Secrete milk
Lymph Nodes-Produces lymph which contains lymphocytes and fights infections and diseases.
Areola-Sebaceous gland that secretes oil prevents nipple and areola from cracking.
Subcutaneous Fat-Holds structures in the breast in place and

Breast Cancer

Breast cells accelerate at an uncontrollable rate. This is due to a mutation in the genes.
The second leading cause of women's cancer death after lung cancer.

Breast Cancer Staging

Stage I
Stage II
Stage III
Stage IV

Modified Radical Mastectomy

Modified radical mastectomy is the entire removal of the breast including the axillary lymph nodes.

Breast Biospy

Breast biopsies are used for diagnostic purposes. It helps the surgeon determine the stage and treatment. There are two types of surgical biopsies, incisional and excisional.

Axilla

The axilla houses a variety of nerves and lymph nodes.
5 anatomical borders make up the axilla.
The clavicle, scapula, and first rib comprise the superior wall.

Sentinel Node Biopsy with Isosulfan Blue Dye

Resource List

Alsayouri, K., & Gordon, A. (n.d.). Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Axilla. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved June 4, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547723/

Frey, K. B. (2018). Surgical Technology For The Surgical Technologist (5th ed.). Cengage Learning.

Santhakumar, S. (2021, September 1). What to know about breast anatomy. Medical News Today. Retrieved June 4, 2023, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/breast-anatomy

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