Breast Cancer Rash: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Breast cancer isn’t always just about finding a lump. In some cases, skin changes like rashes can signal an underlying issue. Learn how to identify the appearance, texture, and symptoms of breast cancer rashes, including signs of inflammatory breast cancer and Paget’s disease.

What Is a Breast Cancer Rash?

A breast cancer rash refers to visible skin changes or irritation on or around the breast that may be a sign of an underlying cancer. While not every rash is cancerous, persistent or unusual changes in breast skin should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Common Traits of a Breast Cancer Rash:

• Red or pink discoloration
• Swelling, warmth, or tenderness
• Scaly, crusty, or thickened skin
• A dimpled or pitted appearance (often called peau d’orange, or "orange peel skin")
• Itching or burning sensation

Rashes can appear on the breast, areola, or nipple and may be mistaken for eczema or an allergic reaction.

Types of Breast Cancer Rashes

1. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

IBC is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that often presents without a lump. Its symptoms include:

• Sudden redness and swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• Enlarged, firm breast
• Thickened skin with an orange peel appearance

This rash develops quickly and needs urgent medical attention.

2. Paget’s Disease of the Breast

Paget’s disease affects the nipple and areola and can resemble eczema. Look for:

• Scaly or flaky skin
• Itching or burning
• Crusting or oozing at the nipple
• Nipple inversion or discharge

This condition often coexists with underlying ductal carcinoma and should not be ignored.

3. Secondary Metastatic Rash

In advanced breast cancer, metastatic rashes can appear on other areas of the body:

• Small pink or red nodules
• Raised lesions on the chest, abdomen, or back
• May be accompanied by other cancer symptoms like fatigue or weight loss

4. Rare Rash-Related Conditions

Some unusual skin signs linked to breast cancer include:

• Acanthosis nigricans: dark, velvety patches
• Dermatomyositis: a rash with muscle inflammation
• Generalized itching (pruritus): without visible rash

How to Recognize a Breast Cancer Rash

Self-Exam Tips:

• Check your breasts monthly in a well-lit room and in front of a mirror
• Look for any persistent rashes, skin dimpling, or color changes
• Gently press around the breast to feel for lumps or thickened areas

When to See a Doctor:

• The rash doesn’t improve within 1–2 weeks
• You experience pain, nipple discharge, or changes in shape
• There’s swelling or warmth with no clear cause

Prompt evaluation with a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy can confirm whether it’s cancerous.

Concerned About a Rash or Skin Changes? Let Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center Help

At Gregory Rhiodes MD Cancer Center, our breast cancer specialists are here to support you with expert diagnostics, advanced treatment options, and compassionate care. Whether you're worried about a rash or another breast symptom, early detection is critical.

Schedule a consultation or call us at (925) 433-8786 to take control of your breast health today.