What are the treatment options for ductal carcinoma in situ?

Ductal carcinoma in situ consists of abnormal cells inside a milk duct. It has not invaded surrounding breast tissue, but treatment is offered because some DCIS can become invasive if left untreated. A mammogram and breast biopsy help confirm the diagnosis and show the area involved.

Lumpectomy removes the DCIS and a margin of nearby tissue while keeping most of the breast. Radiotherapy may follow lumpectomy to reduce the chance of DCIS returning in the treated breast. Mastectomy removes the breast and may be discussed when the affected area is large, widespread, or difficult to remove with a satisfactory result. Hormone therapy can be considered when testing shows hormone receptors.

Ask the breast team to explain the biopsy report, the size and distribution of the DCIS, hormone-receptor results, and whether more tissue is needed for clear margins. Discuss how each operation may affect breast shape, sensation, recovery, and future monitoring. If mastectomy is proposed, ask about reconstruction and whether the other breast needs any separate assessment.

Bring a list of medicines and previous operations. Arrange practical help for the first days after surgery and follow wound-care instructions closely.

After a biopsy or operation, contact the breast team for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, wound discharge, worsening pain, or fever. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe breathlessness, chest pain, or sudden swelling of an arm. During radiotherapy or hormone treatment, report symptoms that are severe, rapidly worsening, or difficult to manage.

Can I have breast-conserving surgery, and would radiotherapy be advised afterward? Why might mastectomy be preferable for my DCIS? Are my cells hormone-receptor positive? What follow-up mammograms and breast checks will I need?