Ductal Carcinoma Overview

What is Ductal Carcinoma In Situ?

Ductal carcinoma in situ (inside) is a Stage 0 non-invasive breast cancer that originates and is contained in the lining of the milk ducts. Ductal carcinoma in situ is the most common type of noninvasive breast cancer.

What is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma?

Invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common type of breast cancer, is characterized when the mutated cells spread from the ducts into the breast tissue.

If untreated, invasive ductal carcinoma can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Who's at Risk for Ductal Carcinoma?

Anybody can develop ductal carcinoma, but certain factors may increase your risk, such as:

• age over 50
• family history of breast and ovarian cancers (in first degree relatives)
• no pregnancies or first pregnancy after age 30
• first menstruation (menarche) before age 12
• one or more pregnancies not followed by breastfeeding

Learn more about the High-Risk Breast Cancer Program at Magee.

Early detection is important.

Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you how to perform a breast exam on yourself. Each clinical visit should also include a breast exam.

View screening recommendations for women without symptoms or a family history of breast cancer.