Overview

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) is a very early form of breast cancer, where abnormal cells develop in the milk ducts but have not spread beyond their place of origin. It is often detected through screening mammograms before any symptoms appear.

DCIS is highly treatable, and with the right approach, most women achieve excellent long-term outcomes and preserve breast appearance and function.

At I D Cancer Center, we offer state-of-the-art diagnosis, breast-conserving treatment, and personalized radiotherapy plans tailored to each woman’s needs.

What is DCIS?

• Non-invasive breast cancer

• Confined to the milk ducts

• Does not invade surrounding breast tissue

• If untreated, some cases may progress to invasive breast cancer

Risk Factors

You may have a higher risk of DCIS if you have:

• Age above 40

• Family history of breast cancer

• Genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2)

• Dense breast tissue

• Early menstruation / late menopause

• Hormone replacement therapy

• Previous chest radiation

• Obesity or sedentary lifestyle

Signs & Symptoms

DCIS usually does not cause symptoms. Common ways it is detected:

• Abnormal mammogram (microcalcifications)

• Rare symptoms include:

  • Nipple discharge

  • Breast lump

  • Localized pain

Most women with DCIS feel absolutely normal — screening saves lives.

Diagnosis at I D Cancer Center

Early and accurate diagnosis is essential. We offer comprehensive breast evaluations:

1. Mammography

• Digital mammography

• Detects suspicious calcifications

2. Breast Ultrasound

• Used with mammography in dense breasts

3. Breast MRI

• For detailed evaluation of extent and multi-focality

4. Biopsy

• Core needle biopsy

• Confirms DCIS, grade, hormone receptor status (ER/PR)

All cases are reviewed by our Multidisciplinary Breast Tumor Board for optimal planning.

Treatment Options

The goal of treating DCIS is to remove abnormal cells, prevent recurrence, and maintain breast shape.

1. Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy)

• Removes DCIS area while saving the breast

• Often followed by radiotherapy

2. Mastectomy (Selected Cases)

Recommended when:

• DCIS is widespread

• Multiple breast areas are involved

• Breast-conserving surgery is not feasible

3. Radiation Therapy

At I D Cancer Center, we offer advanced breast radiotherapy:

• IMRT / IGRT / VMAT

• 3D-CRT

• Hypofractionated breast radiotherapy

• Boost to tumor bed for recurrence prevention

4. Hormonal Therapy

For ER/PR-positive DCIS:

• Tamoxifen (premenopausal)

• Aromatase inhibitors (postmenopausal)

Reduces recurrence in the treated and opposite breast.

Prognosis

• Survival rates are >98%

• Breast-conserving treatment offers outstanding outcomes

• Most women return to normal life quickly

Why Choose I D Cancer Center?

• Senior Radiation Oncologist – Dr. Sunil Kumar

• Advanced breast radiotherapy (IMRT/IGRT/VMAT)

• Comprehensive breast imaging & diagnostic services

• Personalized treatment plans

• Women-centric counselling and supportive care

• Focus on breast preservation & quality of life