Ductal carcinoma in situ

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive form of breast cancer where abnormal cells have been found in the lining of the breast milk duct. The atypical cells have not spread outside of the ducts into the surrounding breast tissue. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ is very early cancer that is highly treatable, but if it’s left untreated or undetected, it can spread into the surrounding breast tissue.

Symptoms

DCIS itself does not cause symptoms. It is often detected during a mammogram as part of a regular screening program.

Causes

The exact cause of DCIS is unknown. However, it is known that cancer arises when a cell's DNA is damaged. Factors that may increase your risk of DCIS include age, a personal history of benign (noncancerous) breast disease, a family history of breast cancer, inherited genes that increase the risk of breast cancer, radiation exposure, and hormone therapy.

Diagnosis

DCIS is usually found during a mammogram done as part of a routine screening program. If an abnormal area is seen on the mammogram, a biopsy may be done to check for cancer cells.

Treatment

Treatment options for DCIS include lumpectomy in combination with radiation therapy, mastectomy, and hormone therapy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for DCIS is generally very good. Since DCIS is a non-invasive cancer, it is highly treatable. However, it is important to have regular check-ups after treatment to ensure that the cancer has not returned or spread.

See also

• Breast cancer
• Mammogram
• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy
• Hormone therapy

References

Ductal carcinoma in situ Resources
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