Peau d'orange

Peau d'orange is a French term, literally translating to "orange peel". In medical terminology, it refers to a symptom in which the skin appears pitted, much like the skin of an orange. This symptom is often associated with inflammatory breast cancer, but can also be indicative of other conditions.

Causes

Peau d'orange is most commonly associated with inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. The pitted, orange peel-like appearance of the skin is caused by the blockage of lymph vessels by cancer cells. This blockage prevents the normal flow of lymph fluid, leading to swelling and the characteristic skin changes.

In addition to inflammatory breast cancer, peau d'orange can also be a symptom of other conditions. These include cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, and lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling in the arms or legs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of peau d'orange typically involves a physical examination of the affected area. If inflammatory breast cancer is suspected, further tests may be required. These can include a mammogram, an ultrasound, or a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment

Treatment for peau d'orange depends on the underlying cause. If the symptom is due to inflammatory breast cancer, treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. For conditions such as cellulitis or lymphedema, treatment may involve antibiotics or physical therapy.

See also

• Inflammatory breast cancer
• Cellulitis
• Lymphedema

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