Breast Cancer Guidelines

Our partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center gives you expanded access to research-based practices in breast cancer care. As cancer experts develop new care methods, we update our practices, helping you receive leading care close to home.

Important note about breast cancer care guidelines

Experts at Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, use breast cancer algorithms to make important decisions about your care. We also consider your unique situation, including your diagnosis, care preferences and other medical problems, to tailor services to your needs.

Find out more about our:

• Breast Cancer Program
• Partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center

Diagnosis and evaluation

Services we use to evaluate suspicious growths and confirm or rule out breast cancer include:

Bilateral diagnostic mammography

This imaging test uses low-dose X-rays to examine abnormal changes in breast tissue. Bilateral means we perform the imaging test on both breasts.

Breast MRI

An MRI uses strong magnets to capture images of breast tissue from multiple angles. Sophisticated computer software puts the images together to deliver a detailed view of the breast and any abnormal masses.

Breast ultrasound

We use sound waves to evaluate abnormal changes in breast tissue. Ultrasound is more sensitive than mammography, potentially providing additional information about the size and shape of an abnormal growth. 

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of suspicious tissue. Doctors who specialize in diagnosing cancer (pathologists) examine it under a microscope.

Pathology review

Examining the biopsy helps us confirm or rule out cancer. It also provides helpful information, such as:

• Whether the cancer is likely to spread to other areas, including nearby lymph nodes (fluid-filled sacs that helps your body clear away germs)
• Type of hormone that may be fueling cancer growth

Genetic testing

If you have a family history of cancer, genetic testing can help you understand your personal cancer risk. We determine whether the cancer is a type passed down in families and whether you’re at risk for other cancers. You have access to information and support from genetic counselors who explain what your test results mean for your future health. Learn more about our cancer genetics and high-risk screening clinic.

Breast cancer surgery

Patients with breast cancer typically need surgery. We may recommend:

Breast-conserving surgery

We remove the cancer along with a portion of healthy cells along its outer edges. This procedure is a lumpectomy (partial mastectomy). Our team includes surgeons who treat cancer while minimizing permanent changes to the appearance of your breast. Read more about oncoplastic breast surgery. ­­

Total mastectomy

In some cases, it’s necessary to remove the entire breast (mastectomy). We deliver comprehensive care, which may include:

• Sentinel lymph node dissection: Breast cancer that spreads typically travels first to the lymph nodes. During sentinel lymph node dissection, we identify lymph nodes of concern and take a biopsy.

• Breast reconstruction: Cancer experts work with plastic surgeons to construct new breasts. We offer many options, including flap procedures that use your own tissue. Read more about breast reconstruction.

Invasive breast cancer guidelines

Invasive breast cancer occurs when cancer spreads to other areas of the breast. Your care may include:

• Surgery to remove cancer: The team includes surgeons who use techniques that minimize changes to the breast’s appearance. Find out more about oncoplastic breast cancer surgery.
• Sentinel lymph node dissection: Breast cancer that spreads typically travels first to the lymph nodes. During sentinel lymph node dissection, we identify lymph nodes of concern and take a biopsy.
• Breast reconstruction: Cancer experts work with plastic surgeons to construct new breasts. We offer many options, including flap procedures that use your tissue. Read more about breast reconstruction.
• Chemotherapy: You may receive drugs that destroy cancer cells. Before surgery (neoadjuvant), chemotherapy may help shrink a tumor for easier removal. After surgery, chemotherapy can destroy cancer cells throughout your body.
• Endocrine (hormone) therapy: In breast cancer due to specific types of hormones, care may include medications that affect cancer cell growth.

Breast cancer prevention and follow-up care

After cancer treatment is complete, you receive ongoing follow-up services. Seeing our experts every year may catch signs of new breast cancer earlier so you receive timely treatment.

Your regular follow-up care may include:

• Physical assessment, including a thorough breast exam
• Mammograms to check for signs of cancer
• Medications, which may include chemotherapy drugs, especially in women who have gone through menopause