Clinical Definition

Ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, is non-invasive or pre-invasive breast cancer. Cells lining the ducts have developed the appearance of cancerous cells but have not invaded the ductal walls to surrounding breast tissues. The cure rate is high.

In Our Own Words

Ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, is early stage breast cancer. It is considered non-invasive or pre-invasive, stage 0. The cells that line the breast’s milk ducts have changed and look like cancer cells have not spread  into the breast around them. Most DCIS cases are detected using breast imaging and biopsy, not symptoms. Treatment options include lumpectomy plus radiation or mastectomy.