Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a type of non-invasive breast cancer where cells are contained in the milk ducts of the breast. It is considered the earliest form of breast cancer and is highly treatable.

What is DCIS?

DCIS occurs when abnormal cells develop in the lining of a milk duct, but they do not spread through the duct walls into the surrounding breast tissue. The term "in situ" means that the cancer cells are still in their original place and have not invaded other parts of the breast or spread to other areas of the body.

Types of DCIS

There are several types of DCIS, including:

• Papillary DCIS: characterized by finger-like projections of cancer cells
• Cribriform DCIS: characterized by a "sieve-like" appearance of cancer cells
• Solid DCIS: characterized by a solid growth pattern of cancer cells
• Comedo DCIS: characterized by the presence of dead cells within the ducts, often with calcifications

Symptoms and Diagnosis

DCIS is often asymptomatic and may be detected during a routine mammogram. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast
• Nipple discharge
• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness or dimpling

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of imaging tests and biopsy. Imaging tests may include:

• Mammogram: an X-ray of the breast tissue
• Ultrasound: uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue

Treatment Options

Treatment for DCIS depends on the size, location, and type of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Lumpectomy: surgical removal of the affected tissue and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue
• Mastectomy: surgical removal of the entire breast
• Radiation therapy: uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
• Hormone therapy: may be used if the DCIS is hormone receptor-positive

Prognosis and Follow-up Care

The prognosis for DCIS is generally excellent, with a high cure rate when treated promptly. However, there is a small risk of recurrence or progression to invasive cancer.

Follow-up care typically includes regular mammograms and clinical exams to monitor for any changes in the breast tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)?
A non-invasive type of breast cancer where cells are contained in the milk ducts.

Is DCIS considered invasive?
No, it is non-invasive and has not spread beyond the ducts.

Can DCIS become invasive?
Yes, if left untreated, it can develop into invasive breast cancer.

What are the symptoms of DCIS?
Often none, but may include a breast lump or abnormal mammogram results.

How is DCIS diagnosed?
Typically through a mammogram and confirmed by biopsy.

What is the treatment for DCIS?
Usually lumpectomy or mastectomy, sometimes followed by radiation therapy.

Is DCIS curable?
Yes, if caught early and treated properly.

Can DCIS be prevented?
No, but regular mammograms can help detect it early.

What is the prognosis for DCIS?
Generally excellent if treated promptly and appropriately.

Does DCIS increase the risk of invasive breast cancer?
Yes, having DCIS increases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer.