IS Case 175: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Corey Sides, MD

Imaging Sciences URMC 2008
Publication Date: 2009-05-21

History

Patient is a 73-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer presenting for mammography. Stereotactic biopsy reveals DCIS with central necrosis. Patient subsequently underwent partial mastectomy and external beam radiation.

Findings

Diagnostic mammogram of the right breast demonstrates suspicious microcalcifications in the upper outer quadrant.

Diagnosis

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Discussion

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) represents approximately 10% of breast cancers in the screening population, and 70% of non-invasive carcinomas. DCIS may present as cluster(s) of microcalcifications without a palpable mass.

DCIS may present with a single cluster, however it may also occur as >1 focus within the same quadrant (multi-focal) or >1 focus in different quadrants of the same breast (multi-centric). Additionally, in rare circumstances axillary metastases may also be present. Treatment options include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy) and radiotherapy.

References

Dahnert WF. Radiology Review Manual. 3rd ed., Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1996.