Ductal carcinoma in situ

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Ductal carcinoma in situ
Synonyms DCIS
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Usually none, sometimes a breast lump or nipple discharge
Complications Invasive breast cancer
Onset Typically after age 50
Duration Variable
Types Comedo, non-comedo
Causes Genetic mutations, hormonal factors
Risks Family history, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, hormone replacement therapy
Diagnosis Mammography, biopsy
Differential diagnosis Invasive ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma in situ
Prevention Regular screening, lifestyle modifications
Treatment Surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy
Medication N/A
Prognosis Excellent with treatment
Frequency Common in women over 50
Deaths N/A


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[edit]

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

Causes[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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

Prognosis[edit]

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.

Gallery[edit]

See also[edit]

References[edit]


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