Ductal Carcinoma: What are its types and How to Treat it?

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Ductal Carcinoma: What are its types and How to Treat it?

 

Ductal Carcinoma is a type of breast cancer in which abnormal cell growth occurs inside the milk ducts of the breast. It is the most common form of breast cancer and can occur in both females and males. Though it is rare, men can also have breast cancer, which can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated.

Ductal Carcinoma is one of the initial forms of breast cancer. It is non-invasive, which means it remains confined within milk ducts and has not yet invaded or spread beyond the walls of the duct. If it is not treated on time, there is a risk that it may convert to invasive breast cancer. 

 

Types Of Ductal Carcinoma


Breast cancer is a frightening diagnosis, but understanding its types and available treatment options can help you and your loved ones to face it with hope and knowledge.  

 

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)


The term In Situ means “in its original place.” In DCIS, the abnormal cells remain confined in the milk ducts and have not yet invaded the surrounding tissues, nor have they traveled to areas like lymph nodes. This confinement makes in non-invasive. 

The clusters or lesions that are formed due to the abnormal growth of milk ducts are detected through mammography. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can reveal a lump or any abnormal changes within the breast tissues, even before the symptoms appear. If it is not timely treated, it can become invasive breast cancer. 

 

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)


The abnormal cells confined within the milk duct acquire the ability to break through the walls of the milk duct and start to invade surrounding breast tissues in IDC. They have the ability to travel to the lymph system, which is a crucial part of your immune system, allowing abnormal cells to travel to other parts of the body.

As IDC progresses, a lump or tumor begins to form within the breast. It is detected through mammography, imaging tests, MRI, or ultrasounds.  

During IDC, patients might notice changes in breast tissues or experience symptoms like nipple discharge or changes in breast shape. 

 

Metaplastic Ductal Carcinoma


It is a rare type of breast cancer, representing a small percentage of all breast cancer cases. The term “metaplastic” refers to the cancer cell's ability to exhibit the characteristics of ductal cells and other types of cells. 

To detect Metaplastic Carcinoma, a medical professional performs a thorough examination of the breast to assess for lumps and changes in the breast shape and size. They also thoroughly examine lymph nodes to determine the cancer's spread.

A biopsy is a critical step to confirm the diagnosis of metaplastic carcinoma. 

 

Ductal Carcinoma Treatment


The following treatment options are available for Ductal Carcinoma:

 

Lumpectomy 


Lumpectomy, also known as breast-conserving surgery or partial mastectomy, is a surgical procedure that commonly treats Ductal Carcinoma, a common form of breast cancer.  The surgery serves to remove all cancerous cells.  It is a common choice for early-stage ductal carcinoma. 

It removes tumors while preserving most of the breast tissues, thus providing an alternative to most extensive breast procedures. After surgery, medical professionals usually administer 6 to 7 weeks of radiation therapy to ensure there are no more remaining cancer cells.

 

Mastectomy 


It is a surgery that involves the removal of an entire breast, including breast tissues, nipples, and areola. It is a life-saving option when a tumor is extensive, large, and involves multiple areas of the breast.  

There are various types of mastectomy, and each specific type depends upon the cancer stage, tumor location, and personal preferences. 

 

Radiation Therapy


Radiation therapy is typically administered after lumpectomy or mastectomy to target any remaining cancer cells in the breast and nearby tissues.  It reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. 

This therapy is a localized treatment, which means it focuses on the specific part of the body where the cancer is located.  It targets and damages the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying and surviving. 

 

Chemotherapy 


Chemotherapy is the best option when cancer is more advanced and has spread to different areas. Unlike radiation, which is a localized treatment. Chemotherapy is systematic, which means it circulates throughout the body to target cells wherever they may be.  

Chemotherapy uses potent medicines that involve various administration methods, including oral pills or intravenous injections.

 

Hormone Therapy 


Some of the ductal carcinoma cells have hormone–receptors on them. Hormones like estrogen can serve as a growth catalyst for such cancerous cells. 

Hormone therapy aims to slow down the effect of these hormones on cancer cells, effectively slowing down or inhibiting their growth. 

 

Targeted Therapy 


It is the most recent advancement in cancer development that uses drugs designed to target certain protein genes that play a significant role in the development of cancer cells. 

Targeted Therapy involves other treatments, such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy, to enhance their effectiveness. 

 

Conclusion


Ductal Carcinoma is a challenging diagnosis, but advancements in medical sciences have equipped us with a range of treatments. There are various types of Ductal carcinoma. Understanding the type of cancer and stage of your cancer is the most important step in determining the appropriate treatment plan. The blog contains all the necessary information related to ductal carcinomas. Now, we believe you can make informed decisions for you or your loved ones. If you feel any such symptoms, it is suggested to quickly visit to your nearest doctor.