It is often referred to as a precancerous (stage 0) condition or an early stage breast cancer.
In situis a Latin phrase meaning “in place.”
DCIS does not always progress to invasive cancer, where the cells invadebreast tissueoutside the duct.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
This article discusses DCIS signs and symptoms, causes, and risk factors.
It also covers how DCIS is diagnosed, how serious it is, and what treatments are available.
Nearly all of those who developearly stage breast cancerare cured.
Hero Images / Getty Images
DCIS doesn’t always have signs or symptoms.
When it does, they can include:
Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you noticebreast changes.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
What Causes Ductal Carcinoma In Situ?
DCIS is known to form as a result of genetic mutations in the DNA of breast duct cells.
Researchers can’t say for sure what sets off the abnormal cell growth leading to DCIS.
DCIS appears as bright white specks (microcalcifications) on a mammogram.
They are seen in clusters and have irregular shaping and size.
The diagnostic mammogram looks more closely at microcalcifications to determine whether there is a reason for concern.
DCIS is classified as a stage 0 cancer.
When Should You Have a Mammogram?
At age 45 to 54 years, mammograms are recommended every year.
But if left untreated, DCIS can sometimes lead to invasive cancer of the breast.
Treatment of DCIS is usually successful.
Generally, it involves removing any abnormal tissue and preventing recurrences.
DCIS can be identified with imaging before it can be felt as a lump.
DCIS is not an invasive cancer and usually doesn’t need to be treated with chemotherapy.
Instead, treatment may include removing the lump, the entire breast, radiation, or hormonal therapy.
Know your risks factors for breast cancer and manage the ones you might control.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your risk or notice any unusual breast changes.
DCIS usually responds well to treatment and has an excellent survival rate.
American Cancer Society.Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Moffitt Cancer Center.Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) causes and risk factors.
Breastcancer.org.DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ).
American Cancer Society.American Cancer Society recommendations for the early detection of breast cancer.
American Cancer Society.Treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
