Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) Treatment in Indore

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) – Summary

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts of the breast. The term “in situ” means that the abnormal cells have not spread beyond the ducts into the surrounding breast tissue. DCIS is considered an early form of breast cancer and is highly treatable when detected early.

How DCIS Develops

DCIS starts when cells lining the milk ducts become abnormal and increase in number.

These cells remain confined to the ducts and do not invade surrounding tissue or spread to other parts of the body.

While it is non-invasive, if left untreated, DCIS can progress to invasive breast cancer over time.

Who Can Get DCIS?

Usually diagnosed in women over the age of 40, though it may occur at younger ages.

Risk factors include:

Family history of breast cancer

Genetic mutations: BRCA1, BRCA2, among others

Hormone replacement therapy

Dense breast tissue

Symptoms

Often, DCIS doesn't cause any symptoms and is found on a mammogram.

Possible signs include:

Tiny clusters of microcalcifications (calcium deposits) on imaging

Rarely a palpable lump in the breast

Mild nipple discharge (rare)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis generally involves:

Mammography - may show microcalcifications associated with DCIS

Biopsy-needle core or surgical biopsy to confirm the presence of abnormal cells

Imaging tests - sometimes an MRI to assess the extent

Overview of Treatment

Treatment aims in DCIS include the eradication or destruction of abnormal cells to prevent the progression into an invasive cancer. Treatments depend on size, grade, location, and patient preferences.

1. Surgery

Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery)- removal of DCIS along with a margin of healthy tissue

Mastectomy-removal of the entire breast when DCIS is extensive or high grade

Sentinel lymph node biopsy - may be done if invasive cancer is suspected

2. Radiation Therapy

Often follows lumpectomy to reduce recurrence risk.

Targets the remaining breast tissue to destroy residual abnormal cells

3. Hormone Therapy

For hormone receptor-positive DCIS, medications such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors may lower the risk of recurrence.

Outlook

DCIS has a very good prognosis if caught and treated early.

Recurrence is possible, but can usually be managed

Regular follow-up imaging and follow-up examinations are imperative.

Prevention & Monitoring

Routine mammograms for early detection

Healthy lifestyle and management of risk factors, Genetic counselling for high-risk individuals