Changes of color
Directly related to swelling and inflammation, the affected breast may start changing color, usually to a reddish tone that will often feel hot to the touch. These changes are caused by inflammation.
Breast cancer cells modulate the inflammatory response to stimulate the production of vasoactive substances. They do so because inflammation increases the blood flow to the tumor and gives cancer more nutrients and oxygen to survive. Thus, the area affected with cancer would dilate its blood vessels and increase blood flow, which causes the characteristic change of color of the skin.
When malignant tumors are not superficial, changes of color in the skin might not be noticeable, but it is still possible to experience them in later stages. If you notice a change of color in one of your breasts, be sure to notify this finding to your physician and follow his advice carefully to rule out any malignant cause.
