Diseases
ductal carcinoma
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the presence of abnormal cells inside a milk duct in the breast. DCIS is considered the earliest form of breast cancer. DCIS is noninvasive, meaning it hasn't spread out of the milk duct and has a low risk of becoming invasive.
Symptoms
- a breast lump
- bloody nipple discharge
- dcis is usually found on a mammogram and appears as clusters of calcifications
Causes
- it's not clear what causes dcis. dcis forms when genetic mutations occur in the dna of breast duct cells.
Risk factors
- increasing age
- personal history of benign breast disease, such as atypical hyperplasia
- family history of breast cancer
Diagnosis
- breast imaging
- removing breast tissue samples for testing
- breast mri
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is ductal carcinoma?
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the presence of abnormal cells inside a milk duct in the breast. DCIS is considered the earliest form of breast cancer. DCIS is noninvasive, meaning it hasn't spread out of the milk duct and has a low risk of becoming invasive.
What are the symptoms of ductal carcinoma?
a breast lump, bloody nipple discharge, dcis is usually found on a mammogram and appears as clusters of calcifications
What causes ductal carcinoma?
it's not clear what causes dcis. dcis forms when genetic mutations occur in the dna of breast duct cells.
Which medicines are used for ductal carcinoma?
tamoxifen
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