Comedocarcinoma

Comedocarcinoma is a subtype of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer. It is characterized by the presence of comedo necrosis, a specific type of cell death in which the cell's contents are expelled, resembling a comedo (a blackhead).

Overview

Comedocarcinoma is a high-grade form of DCIS, meaning it has a higher likelihood of becoming invasive if left untreated. It is named for its resemblance to a comedo, a blackhead, under the microscope. The center of the tumor is filled with dead cells and debris, which can be expressed out, similar to a blackhead.

Symptoms

Comedocarcinoma typically does not present with any symptoms. It is most often discovered during routine mammography. In some cases, it may present as a palpable mass in the breast or nipple discharge.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of comedocarcinoma is made by biopsy of the suspicious area identified on mammography. The biopsy sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist who can identify the characteristic features of comedocarcinoma.

Treatment

The treatment for comedocarcinoma is similar to other forms of DCIS. This may include lumpectomy (surgical removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue), mastectomy (surgical removal of the entire breast), and radiation therapy. In some cases, hormone therapy may also be recommended.

Prognosis

The prognosis for comedocarcinoma is generally good, as it is a non-invasive form of breast cancer. However, it is a high-grade form of DCIS, which means it has a higher likelihood of becoming invasive if left untreated.

See also

• Breast cancer
• Ductal carcinoma in situ
• Mammography
• Biopsy
• Pathology
• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy

External links

• National Cancer Institute: Breast Cancer
• BreastCancer.org