Ductal carcinoma in situ of the mammary gland
Mammary ductal carcinoma in situ is the presence of atypical cells in the mammary duct of the breast
Mammary ductal carcinoma in situ is considered the earliest form of breast cancer The cancer is noninvasive, meaning that the tumor has not spread to other parts of the breast from the duct.
Ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast is detected during mammography to detect breast cancer or in case of suspicion of other breast pathology. As a result of the increased frequency of mammography, the number of ductal carcinoma in situ diagnoses has increased dramatically in recent years.
Although ductal carcinoma in situ is not life-threatening, the condition requires treatment before the cancer progresses to the invasive phase. Most women with cancer are effectively treated with breast-conserving surgery and radiation therapy
The exact causes of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast are unknown Cancer occurs when a genetic mutation occurs in the ductal cells of the breast. Genetic mutations cause the cells to differentiate, but these cells are still unable to migrate from the duct to other parts of the body in the early stages.
Researchers do not know what causes abnormal cell growth and reproduction However, many factors are likely involved in the process, including genes inherited from parents, environmental factors, and lifestyle
In most cases, ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast does not cause symptoms However, symptoms may be present:
- A lump on the breast
- Bloody discharge from the nipple
- Ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast is usually detected during a mammogram. It presents as small clusters of calcifications of irregular size and shape
When to See Your Doctor - Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breast, such as a lump, wrinkled or odd-looking skin, a thickened area under the skin, or discharge from the nipple. Consult a doctor to determine the cause
- Ask your doctor when and how often you should have a mammogram Most doctors recommend that women have routine breast cancer screenings after age 40. Consult your doctor so that he can suggest the optimal solution for you
