What should you know about multicentric DCIS?

DCIS, or ductal carcinoma in situ, is made up of abnormal cells contained within milk ducts. Multicentric means the findings are in more than one distinct area of the breast rather than one single focus. It is non-invasive, but it can develop into invasive breast cancer if untreated. A mammogram may show calcifications, while a biopsy confirms what the cells are and helps assess their features. Imaging and pathology are reviewed together because separate areas can affect the choice between breast-conserving surgery and removal of the breast.

Take the imaging and biopsy results to a breast team for a coordinated plan. Ask whether both breasts and the lymph nodes need assessment, whether the abnormal areas can be removed with clear margins, and whether hormone receptors were tested. Possible care can include a lumpectomy, mastectomy, radiotherapy after selected surgery, or hormone therapy for cancer when appropriate. The right combination depends on the locations, extent and biology of the DCIS, your breast anatomy and your preferences.

Arrange timely specialist review after an abnormal mammogram or biopsy result. Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding after a procedure, rapidly worsening breast swelling, fever, spreading redness, severe pain or breathing difficulty. These symptoms can have causes unrelated to DCIS, but they need prompt assessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

Ask how many separate areas were identified, where they are located, and what the biopsy shows. Ask what surgery would remove all visible disease, whether radiotherapy is advised, whether hormone receptor testing changes the plan, and how follow-up imaging will be organised.