The breasts have a branching morphology made up of numerous lobules, which connect to the nipple by a series of ducts. Fat cells, lymph nodes and connective tissue surround the lobules and ducts to support and shape the breasts. Each type of structure within the breast has specialized cell types, which have the potential to give rise to cancer. There are a number of types of breast cancer, identified based on the cell type they originated from as well as their invasiveness.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive tumor that arises from mutated ductal cells. According to the National Cancer Institute in the United States, DCIS accounts for approximately 18 percent of new breast cancer diagnoses in the U.S. Mammograms are used to diagnose DCIS, which is not usually found as a palpable mass in the breast. In some cases, DCIS can progress to a more aggressive, metastatic tumor, but this does not always occur. The National Cancer Institute reports that treating DCIS generally requires breast-conserving surgery to remove the bulk of the tumor, along with radiation therapy to prevent recurrence. Some forms of DCIS have specific genetic profiles, and these types of tumors are sometimes treated with targeted therapies, decreasing the need for radiation therapy.
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) develops from the lobule tissue of the breast. Like DCIS, LCIS is a non-invasive tumor, although it has the potential to develop into an invasive and metastatic cancer. According to Stanford Medicine, LCIS occurs when lobules of the breast contain growths of excess cells, which can occur in one or both breasts. LCIS is diagnosed by breast tissue biopsy because this form of carcinoma is not visible on a mammogram. Once diagnosed, patients are monitored to ensure that the LCIS does not develop into an invasive cancer. Stanford Medicine reports that targeted treatments can reduce the risk of developing metastatic cancer in the future. LCIS patients with a family history of breast cancer may undergo mastectomy to prevent the development of cancer.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is an aggressive and rare form of cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, IBC accounts for only 1 to 5 percent of diagnosed breast cancer cases. It affects younger females than some other forms of cancer and can also affect males. IBC occurs when cancer cells block the lymphatic tissue within the breast. This gives the breast a red and swollen appearance, which gives the cancer its name. IBC generally spreads rapidly and requires aggressive treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, IBC treatment involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy and hormonal therapy. In general, the prognosis of IBC is worse than that of other cancers, with a five-year survival rate between 25 and 50 percent.
