DCIS, or Ductal Carcinoma In Situ, is a non-invasive form of breast cancer.
Understanding DCIS
DCIS is characterized by malignant (cancerous) cells that are confined to the milk ducts of the breast and have not spread to surrounding tissue. In simpler terms, the cells lining the milk ducts have become cancerous but remain "in situ," meaning "in place".
Key Aspects of DCIS
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Milk ducts of the breast. |
| Cell Type | Malignant (cancerous). |
| Invasion | Non-invasive; cells have not spread beyond the milk ducts. |
| Significance | Considered a precursor to invasive breast cancer if left untreated. |
Additional Information
Because DCIS is contained within the milk ducts, it's considered non-invasive. However, if left untreated, it can potentially develop into invasive breast cancer, where the cancerous cells spread beyond the ducts. This is why early detection and treatment are crucial.
