Ductal carcinoma

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Ductal carcinoma
File:Infiltrating ductal carcinoma 20X.jpg
Synonyms Ductal breast carcinoma
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Breast lump, nipple discharge, breast pain
Complications Metastasis, lymphedema
Onset Typically post-menopausal
Duration Variable
Types Ductal carcinoma in situ, Invasive ductal carcinoma
Causes Genetic mutations, hormonal factors
Risks Family history, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, age, obesity
Diagnosis Mammography, biopsy, MRI
Differential diagnosis Lobular carcinoma, fibroadenoma, mastitis
Prevention Lifestyle modification, chemoprevention, prophylactic mastectomy
Treatment Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy
Medication N/A
Prognosis Generally good with early detection
Frequency Most common type of breast cancer
Deaths N/A


Ductal carcinoma is a common type of breast cancer that begins in the cells of the mammary ducts. It is classified into two types: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)[edit]

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive form of breast cancer where the abnormal cells are contained within the milk ducts. It is often detected during a mammogram as it does not usually cause any noticeable symptoms.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)[edit]

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is a type of breast cancer that has spread beyond the milk ducts into the surrounding breast tissue. It is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of ductal carcinoma can vary, but may include a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin over the breast, or nipple discharge.

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of ductal carcinoma typically involves a combination of physical examination, mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment options for ductal carcinoma depend on the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences. They may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

Prognosis[edit]

The prognosis for ductal carcinoma varies widely depending on the stage at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment.

See Also[edit]