Invasive ductal carcinoma

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), also known as infiltrating ductal carcinoma, is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses. IDC starts in the milk ducts of the breast, then breaks through the wall of the duct and invades the fatty tissue of the breast. From there, it can metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.

Symptoms

The symptoms of invasive ductal carcinoma may include a breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue, changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling, a newly inverted nipple, peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin, and redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange.

Diagnosis

Mammography is the most common method used to detect IDC. Other imaging methods, such as ultrasound or MRI, may also be used. A biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for IDC typically involves some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the patient's personal preferences.

Prognosis

The prognosis for IDC can vary widely depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis.

See also

• Breast cancer
• Ductal carcinoma in situ
• Invasive lobular carcinoma
• Mammography
• Biopsy

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