Comedocarcinoma
Comedocarcinoma is a subtype of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer. It is characterized by the presence of comedo necrosis, a specific type of cell death in which the cell's contents are expelled, resembling a comedo (a blackhead).
Overview[edit | edit source]
Comedocarcinoma is a high-grade form of DCIS, meaning it has a higher likelihood of becoming invasive if left untreated. It is named for its resemblance to a comedo, a blackhead, under the microscope. The center of the tumor is filled with dead cells and debris, which can be expressed out, similar to a blackhead.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Comedocarcinoma typically does not present with any symptoms. It is most often discovered during routine mammography. In some cases, it may present as a palpable mass in the breast or nipple discharge.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of comedocarcinoma is made by biopsy of the suspicious area identified on mammography. The biopsy sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist who can identify the characteristic features of comedocarcinoma.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment for comedocarcinoma is similar to other forms of DCIS. This may include lumpectomy (surgical removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue), mastectomy (surgical removal of the entire breast), and radiation therapy. In some cases, hormone therapy may also be recommended.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for comedocarcinoma is generally good, as it is a non-invasive form of breast cancer. However, it is a high-grade form of DCIS, which means it has a higher likelihood of becoming invasive if left untreated.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Breast cancer
- Ductal carcinoma in situ
- Mammography
- Biopsy
- Pathology
- Lumpectomy
- Mastectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
References[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD