What should you know about medical term DCIS?

DCIS means abnormal cells are contained inside a breast milk duct and have not invaded surrounding breast tissue. It is also called ductal carcinoma in situ and is often found through breast imaging rather than a lump. DCIS is a diagnosis that needs specialist assessment because its features guide management.

A [Mammogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/mammogram/) may show calcifications or another change. A [Breast Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/breast-biopsy/) examines tissue and can provide details such as the extent and grade of the abnormal cells, and whether hormone receptors are present.

Treatment aims to remove or control the affected area and reduce the chance of a future invasive breast cancer. Options may include [Lumpectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/lumpectomy/), [Mastectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/mastectomy/), [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) or hormone treatment, depending on the pathology and personal circumstances.

Request a copy of the pathology report and ask which findings affect the recommendation. Bring a list of medicines and prior breast procedures to the appointment. Discuss the size and distribution of the DCIS, whether surgery is advised, and whether further tissue or imaging is needed.

Ask how treatment may affect breast shape, sensation, movement and future imaging. If hormone therapy is proposed, discuss expected benefits, side effects and other medicines. Take time to consider questions before consenting to treatment.

Contact your breast or surgical team promptly for a new rapidly enlarging swelling, bloody nipple discharge, skin redness with fever, severe pain or a wound that is opening or draining. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, fainting or severe breathing difficulty. A new breast symptom needs assessment; it does not by itself prove invasive cancer.

What does my pathology report show about grade, extent and hormone receptors? Is breast-conserving surgery suitable? Would radiotherapy or hormone therapy be recommended afterward? Why might mastectomy be considered? What follow-up imaging will I need?