Overview
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is an uncommon condition in which abnormal cells form in the milk glands (lobules) in the breast. These abnormal cells are confined within the breast lobules and haven't spread to surrounding breast tissue or invaded other organs. LCIS is not cancer, but having this condition indicates an increased risk of developing breast cancer in either breast. LCIS usually doesn't show up on mammograms and is most often discovered as a result of a breast biopsy done for another reason, such as a suspicious breast lump or an abnormal mammogram. Women with LCIS have a higher chance of developing invasive breast cancer compared to those without LCIS. Your doctor may recommend increased breast cancer screening and discuss medical treatments to reduce your risk of developing invasive breast cancer.
Understanding the disease
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) include:
- Being female: Women are more likely to develop breast cancer, including LCIS.
- Age: LCIS is more common in women aged 40-50.
- Family history of breast cancer: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer can increase the risk of developing LCIS.
- Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can increase the risk of LCIS and other forms of breast cancer. It's important to note that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a person will develop LCIS or breast cancer. Conversely, some people without any known risk factors may still develop the condition.
Development
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is an uncommon condition in which abnormal cells form in the milk glands (lobules) in the breast. These abnormal cells are confined within the breast lobules and haven't invaded the surrounding breast tissue. LCIS isn't cancer, but it's an indication of an increased risk of developing breast cancer of any type, including invasive lobular carcinoma and invasive ductal carcinoma. The development of LCIS involves genetic mutations within the cells of a milk-producing gland (lobule) in the breast. These mutations cause the cells to appear abnormal, but the abnormal cells remain confined within the lobule and do not extend into or invade nearby breast tissue. LCIS is most often discovered incidentally, such as during a breast biopsy done for another reason, like a suspicious breast lump or an abnormal mammogram. Since it doesn't show up on mammograms, LCIS is typically diagnosed after a breast biopsy. Being diagnosed with LCIS means that you have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer for women diagnosed with LCIS is estimated to be approximately 20 percent, which is higher than the general population's 12 percent risk. Your individual risk of breast cancer is based on various factors, and your doctor can help you better understand your personal risk.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is suspected, you should see a doctor for a breast biopsy to determine whether you have LCIS. LCIS is most often discovered as a result of a breast biopsy done for another reason, such as a suspicious breast lump or an abnormal mammogram. Since LCIS doesn't cause signs or symptoms, it is typically detected incidentally. If you have any signs or symptoms of breast cancer, such as a lump, an area of puckered or otherwise unusual skin, a thickened region under the skin, or nipple discharge, you should also consult your doctor.
Diagnosis
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is usually diagnosed incidentally when a biopsy is performed to evaluate another area of concern in the breast. The condition is not visible on a mammogram but can be diagnosed through a breast biopsy. Types of breast biopsy that may be used include core needle biopsy and surgical biopsy. In some cases, a breast biopsy may be done using a needle to draw out fluid or tissue from the breast, or breast tissue can be removed surgically.
Management and Treatment
Complications
It is important to note that having LCIS increases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer in either breast, which can have potential complications. Some potential complications of invasive breast cancer include the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, the need for surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, and the possibility of long-term side effects from treatment. It's essential to follow up with your doctor regularly and consider risk-reducing strategies if you have been diagnosed with LCIS.
Prevention
There is currently no effective way to prevent lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). LCIS is not considered a cancer, but an indication of increased risk for developing breast cancer. Since its causes are not entirely clear, there is no proven method to prevent it. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, understanding your family history, and following your doctor's recommendations for screenings and risk reduction can help with early detection and management of any potential breast cancer.
Home Remedies
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is an uncommon condition, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management. Treatment and management strategies for LCIS are usually recommended and overseen by a medical professional.
Treatment
Treatment options for Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) may include:
- Careful observation: Your doctor may recommend more frequent exams to closely monitor your breasts for signs of cancer. This may include monthly breast self-exams, clinical breast exams every year, and screening mammograms annually.
- Taking a medication to reduce cancer risk (preventive therapy): Hormone therapy may be considered in some cases. This involves the use of medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene to reduce the risk of developing invasive breast cancer.
- Surgery: In some cases, a surgical biopsy may be performed to remove the suspicious cells for examination. However, LCIS itself is not cancerous, and it typically doesn't require immediate surgery. It's essential to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on your individual situation and risk factors.