Does hormone therapy treat ductal carcinoma in situ?

Ductal carcinoma in situ is abnormal cell growth confined to a milk duct. Local treatment, such as breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy, is used to remove or control the area. Radiation may be advised after breast-conserving surgery. Hormone therapy works throughout the body and is considered only when testing shows hormone receptors.

For suitable people, it can reduce the likelihood of another hormone-receptor-positive breast problem in treated or opposite breast tissue. It is not chemotherapy and does not replace the procedure recommended to manage the known DCIS.

Review the pathology findings with the breast team, including hormone-receptor results and the margins from surgery. Ask how much additional benefit hormone therapy may offer in your circumstances and whether the expected effects fit your health priorities. Keep planned breast examinations and imaging even if you take the medicine.

Seek prompt medical advice for a new breast or armpit lump, nipple discharge that is bloody, skin or nipple changes, or swelling after treatment. During hormone therapy, urgently report chest pain, breathlessness, severe leg pain or swelling, sudden neurological symptoms, or heavy unexpected bleeding.

Are my DCIS cells hormone-receptor positive? Is hormone therapy advised after my procedure? What does it protect against, and what does it not treat? How will we monitor its effects?