The key difference between Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) and Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) is that LCIS is not considered true cancer, while ILC is an invasive form of breast cancer.
Understanding LCIS and ILC
To further clarify the distinction, let's examine each condition:
-
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS):
- Not Cancer: LCIS is a condition where abnormal cells are found within the lobules (milk-producing glands) of the breast. Critically, these cells have not spread beyond the lobules.
- Increased Risk: While not cancer itself, having LCIS significantly increases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer (either ductal or lobular) in the future, in either breast.
- Often Asymptomatic: LCIS usually doesn't cause a lump or other noticeable symptoms and is often discovered during a biopsy performed for another reason.
- Management: Management typically involves increased surveillance (more frequent mammograms and clinical breast exams) and, in some cases, preventive medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene, or even prophylactic mastectomy.
-
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC):
- Invasive Cancer: ILC is a type of invasive breast cancer. This means that the cancer cells have broken out of the lobules where they originated and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
- Distinct Growth Pattern: ILC often grows in a single-file pattern, which can make it more difficult to detect on mammograms.
- Symptoms: ILC may present as a thickening or hardening in the breast, rather than a distinct lump. Nipple changes or skin dimpling can also occur.
- Treatment: Treatment for ILC typically involves a combination of surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and/or targeted therapy, depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.
Summary Table
| Feature | Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) | Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer? | No, but increases cancer risk | Yes |
| Invasive? | No | Yes |
| Spread? | No | Potential to spread |
| Detection | Often incidental | Possible lump or thickening |
| Treatment | Surveillance, preventive meds | Surgery, radiation, chemo, etc. |
In conclusion, LCIS is a condition indicating an increased risk of developing breast cancer, whereas ILC is an actual invasive cancer that requires immediate and comprehensive treatment.
