Tender/sometimes painful around the pectoral area/armpit glands

My wife is 41 years old and has had two children (both breast fed and ages 6 + 12) she has no cancer history/close family history in this respect.

She is worried that the problem may be related to beast cancer although on research I've done it would be almost unheard of to have cancer in both breasts and as far as I can find out only one lymph gland would be affected (next to the breat affected).

In other words even if she had cancer in one breast this would not make the lymph glands on BOTH sides painful.

She is awaiting an appointment with a breast surgeon but as you may understand she is very conerned due to the age of our youngest child in particular.

Our GP has been unable to find any beast lumps although her gynaecologist was concerned about some slight swelling and an 'uneven feeling' around her gland areas.

She had 1 course of antibiotics but this did not help

Thanks

[Forum-M.D.-DT]

Thank you for visiting the Family Practice Forum.

Well, two things come to mind. The first is a condition known as "fibrocytic change" or "fibrocystic breast disease". Fibrocystic Breast Disease is not a disease, but rather a condition seen in some women where there is a lumpiness to the breasts. The lumps may become larger and smaller with the woman's menstrual cycle. (vs. a breast cancer which would typically appear and then continue to steadily enlarge). Limiting caffeine has been shown to be helpful in reducing the symptoms (usually pain) associated with this condition. Typically women with Fibrocystic breast disease will have some lumpiness to the breasts, usually in the upper, outer area. Anti-inflammatory medications have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of this condition. If the cysts are large, occasionally surgical removal (of the cyst) is required.
Another possibility is "Mastitis".
Mastitis is a infection of the breast usually due to a blocked milk duct. It is most common in the first 2 months of breastfeeding but may occur at times other than breast feeding as well.
The doctor examining the patient with presumed mastitis will ask questions regarding breast feeding, previous similar infection or inflammation, presence or absence of nipple discharge or fever. A blood test to determine the severity of the infection may be ordered. Usually if affects ONE breast and is due to a bacteria known as Staphylococcus.  The breast is found to be tender, red, swollen and there may be swelling of glands in the axilla (armpit).
Treatment is through the use of hot packs and oral antibiotics. The mother is encouraged to continue to breastfeed or use a breast pump. In severe cases hospitalization and IV antibiotics may be necessary. If the infection is not treated sores may form and the infection may spread.
Of course, cancer is a "possibility" but given the symptoms you describe this is far less likely. However, a mammogram is certainly in order.
I hope this helps!