What are the treatment options for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)?
DCIS is an early form of breast cancer that is usually highly treatable. The good news is that about 98% of people with DCIS survive 10 or more years after diagnosis. Treatment typically involves surgery, sometimes followed by radiation or hormone therapy.
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What are the treatment options for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)?
DCIS is an early form of breast cancer that is usually highly treatable. The good news is that about 98% of people with DCIS survive 10 or more years after diagnosis. Treatment typically involves surgery, sometimes followed by radiation or hormone therapy.
Here are the main treatment options:
- Lumpectomy alone – removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue
- Lumpectomy + radiation therapy – the most common choice, used by nearly 50% of people with DCIS
- Lumpectomy + hormone-blocking therapy – recommended if the cancer is hormone receptor-positive
- Single mastectomy – removal of one breast, often recommended if DCIS is widespread
- Double mastectomy – removal of both breasts, chosen by some for personal or medical reasons Chemotherapy is generally not recommended for DCIS, since the cancer hasn't spread beyond the milk ducts.
The right treatment depends on factors like tumor size, cancer grade, hormone receptor status, age, and personal preferences. It's really worth having an open conversation with your breast cancer specialist about what aligns best with your goals and concerns — they can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each option.
June 20
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