DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)

Ductal carcinoma in situ, known as DCIS, is an early form of breast cancer. The abnormal cells are contained within the milk ducts of the breast and have not spread into the surrounding tissue. This video explains what DCIS is; how it is found; and how it is treated. DCIS is often called non-invasive or pre-invasive breast cancer. The term 'in situ' means the cells are still in their original place and have not spread. However, if left untreated, some cases may become invasive over time. Most people with DCIS have no symptoms. It is usually found during routine breast screening, when a mammogram shows tiny specks of calcium called microcalcifications. These calcium deposits can sometimes indicate DCIS and a biopsy will be needed to confirm the diagnosis. DCIS is now more commonly diagnosed than in the past, largely because of breast screening programmes. Finding DCIS early allows it to be treated before it has a chance to become invasive. This is why attending your screening appointments is so important. Treatment for DCIS usually involves surgery to remove the affected area. This may be breast-conserving surgery, where only part of the breast is removed, or in some cases a mastectomy if the DCIS covers a large area. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you. After breast-conserving surgery, radiotherapy is often recommended. This helps reduce the chance of DCIS returning in the same breast. If the DCIS is hormone receptor-positive, you may also be offered hormone therapy to lower the risk of future breast problems. DCIS does not require chemotherapy because the cells have not spread. The outlook for people with DCIS is excellent - and with appropriate treatment, the risk of it returning or developing into invasive cancer is low. Most people go on to live full, healthy lives. Some patients can take a small dose of a hormone tablet to prevent future DCIS but this is a personalised discussion based on individual risk and requires testing the DCIS for sensitivity to oestrogen. After treatment, you will have regular follow-up appointments and mammograms. This is to check for any changes in the treated breast and to monitor the other breast. If anything unusual is found, it can be investigated promptly. Being diagnosed with DCIS can still feel worrying, even though it is very treatable. Your breast-care team will be there to support you through diagnosis, and treatment. If you would like more information about DCIS and what it means for you, please get in touch.