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  3. Lobular Carcinoma in Situ: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) is a condition that occurs when abnormal cells are present in the milk-producing glands of a woman`s breast. LCIS is not considered cancer; instead, it is viewed as a sign that the woman has an increased risk of developing invasive breast cancer. Women with LCIS are often advised to undergo more frequent mammograms, breast exams, and other cancer screening tests to detect any changes in their breast tissue. Treatment for LCIS is typically not necessary, but some women choose to have a prophylactic mastectomy, where both breasts are surgically removed to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

Symptoms of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

What are the common symptoms of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ?

Common symptoms of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) are not noticeable as there are no physical symptoms or lumps that can be felt in the breast. LCIS is detected through very detailed medical imaging tests such as mammography, breast ultrasound, or biopsy, where abnormal cells are examined and tested.

What are the potential causes of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ?

The potential causes of LCIS are not entirely known, but it is believed that hormonal factors play a role. Abnormal hormone levels can change the structure of the breast lobules and ducts, leading to LCIS. Additionally, genetic mutations, radiation exposure, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and obesity can contribute to the development of LCIS.

Is LCIS usually accompanied by any noticeable physical symptoms?

LCIS usually does not come with any noticeable physical symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose without medical imaging tests. Women with LCIS may only discover that they have it when they undergo a biopsy or other medical imaging test for another reason.

What environmental factors have been known to contribute to the development of LCIS?

Environmental factors that have been linked to an increased risk of developing LCIS include exposure to radiation and exposure to hormones either through hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives. Lifestyle factors such as alcohol intake, inactivity, and obesity are also associated with an increased risk of developing LCIS.

Can a family history of breast cancer increase the risk of developing Lobular Carcinoma in Situ?

Yes, having a family history of breast cancer can increase the risk of developing LCIS. Women who have a first-degree relative (like a mother or sister) with breast cancer have a higher risk of developing all types of breast cancer, including LCIS. Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are also associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, including LCIS.

Diagnosis of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

What diagnostic test is commonly used to detect LCIS?

The diagnostic test commonly used to detect lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a breast biopsy. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Breast Cancer Foundation

How is LCIS diagnosed on breast imaging?

LCIS is usually diagnosed on breast imaging through mammography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound. However, breast imaging alone cannot provide a definite diagnosis of LCIS because it often appears as a non-specific and subtle finding. Breast biopsy is the only reliable method to confirm whether or not LCIS is present. Sources: Mayo Clinic, National Breast Cancer Foundation

Can a biopsy confirm the presence of LCIS?

Yes, a breast biopsy can confirm the presence of LCIS. A biopsy involves taking a sample of breast tissue and examining it under a microscope to look for abnormal cells or signs of cancer. During a biopsy, a doctor will usually use a needle to remove a small sample of the suspicious tissue (called a core needle biopsy) or the entire abnormal area (called an excisional biopsy). Historically, LCIS was often an incidental finding after biopsy, as it frequently occurs in conjunction with invasive and in situ breast cancer. Sources: Mayo Clinic, National Cancer Institute

Is genetic testing recommended for individuals with LCIS?

Genetic testing is not routinely recommended for individuals with LCIS. While some cases of LCIS can be associated with genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing breast cancer, the majority of cases are sporadic and not associated with known genetic mutations. However, for women with a strong family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, genetic testing may be recommended to assess their risk of developing cancer in the future. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Comprehensive Cancer Network

What follow-up imaging tests are typically recommended for patients with LCIS?

The follow-up imaging tests recommended for patients with LCIS typically depend on a number of factors, including the patient`s age, family history of breast cancer, and personal medical history. In general, women with LCIS should have regular breast cancer screening, including annual mammograms and breast MRI, starting at age 40 or earlier if they are at high risk for breast cancer. Depending on the individual patient`s risk factors, their healthcare practitioner may recommend additional screening modalities, such as breast ultrasound or molecular breast imaging. Sources: Mayo Clinic, National Comprehensive Cancer Network

Treatments of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

What options are available for managing LCIS?

Management options for LCIS include close monitoring, medication, and surgery. Doctors determine the appropriate treatment plan based on the individual’s medical history, age, overall health, and the extent of the condition.

How do doctors determine the appropriate treatment plan for LCIS?

Close Monitoring: Close monitoring involves regular breast exams, mammograms, and MRIs to track any changes. Women with LCIS are advised to get a mammogram every year and an MRI every two years to detect early signs of breast cancer.

Are there any medications that can be used to treat LCIS?

Medication: Medications such as Tamoxifen, raloxifene, and aromatase inhibitors may be used to treat LCIS. These medications offer a significant reduction in the risk of developing invasive breast cancer.

What surgical procedures are used to treat LCIS?

Surgery: Surgery may be recommended for women with LCIS who have a high risk of developing breast cancer. The surgical options include prophylactic mastectomy, breast-conserving surgery, and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Women who undergo a prophylactic mastectomy can reduce their risk of developing breast cancer by more than 90%.

Is it necessary to have regular follow-up appointments after treatment for LCIS?

Follow-up Appointments: Yes, women who have undergone treatment for LCIS are advised to have regular follow-up appointments with their doctor. This is essential to ensure that any signs of recurrent LCIS or breast cancer are detected early.

Prognosis of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

What is the typical prognosis for Lobular Carcinoma in Situ?

The typical prognosis for Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) is excellent. LCIS is not a cancer but a condition that increases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer later in life. Therefore, the treatment of LCIS is focused on reducing the risk of developing invasive cancer in the future by closely monitoring the patient and using preventive measures like hormone therapy or prophylactic mastectomy. According to the American Cancer Society, the 10-year survival rate for women with LCIS is approximately 99%, which indicates that the condition is not life-threatening on its own.

How likely is LCIS to develop into invasive cancer?

LCIS itself does not usually develop into invasive cancer. However, it is a risk factor for developing invasive cancer later in life, particularly in the same breast or opposite breast. According to the National Cancer Institute, women with LCIS are about four times more likely to develop invasive breast cancer than women without the condition. However, the risk of developing invasive cancer can vary depending on factors such as the age of the patient, the type of LCIS, and the presence of other risk factors.

Does the prognosis of LCIS differ between premenopausal and postmenopausal women?

The prognosis of LCIS may differ between premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Some studies have suggested that premenopausal women with LCIS may have a higher risk of developing invasive breast cancer than postmenopausal women with the same condition. However, the evidence is not conclusive, and other studies have found no significant difference in prognosis between the two groups.

What are the common factors that affect the prognosis of LCIS?

The common factors that affect the prognosis of LCIS include the patient`s age, family history of breast cancer, the type of LCIS, the presence of other risk factors such as obesity or a history of benign breast disease, and the use of hormone replacement therapy. In general, LCIS is more likely to progress to invasive cancer in younger women, women with a family history of breast cancer, and in those with other risk factors.

How successful are current treatment options in improving LCIS prognosis?

The current treatment options for LCIS include close monitoring, preventive measures such as hormone therapy or prophylactic mastectomy, and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly. The success of these treatments in improving LCIS prognosis depends on several factors, including the patient`s age, overall health, and other risk factors. According to some studies, hormone therapy can reduce the risk of developing invasive breast cancer by up to 60%, while prophylactic mastectomy can reduce the risk by up to 95%. However, these preventive measures can also have significant side effects and should be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare provider. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, Breastcancer.org.

Prevention of Lobular Carcinoma in Situ

What are some lifestyle changes that can help prevent the development of LCIS?

Lifestyle changes that can help prevent the development of LCIS include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly. Women can also reduce their risk of LCIS by breastfeeding for at least six months, avoiding or limiting hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and getting regular mammograms to detect any changes in breast tissue. These lifestyle changes can help reduce the levels of estrogen in the body, which can contribute to the development of LCIS.

Is there a specific diet recommended to lower the risk of developing LCIS?

Although there is no specific diet recommended to lower the risk of developing LCIS, a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. Additionally, some studies have suggested that consuming soy products may lower the risk of breast cancer, as soy contains compounds that act like estrogen blockers.

How does hormone therapy reduce the chances of developing LCIS?

Hormone therapy reduces the chances of developing LCIS by blocking the effects of estrogen in the body. Estrogen can contribute to the development and growth of breast cancer cells, so reducing the level of estrogen in the body can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. Hormone therapy may be recommended for women at a high risk of developing breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or those who have already been diagnosed with LCIS.

Are there certain medications that can reduce the risk of LCIS?

There are certain medications that can reduce the risk of LCIS, such as tamoxifen and raloxifene. These medications work by blocking the effects of estrogen in the body, which can help prevent the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. Women at a high risk of developing LCIS may be recommended to take these medications to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.

Can regular exercise help prevent LCIS from developing?

Regular exercise can help prevent LCIS from developing by reducing the levels of estrogen in the body. Exercise can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of cancer cells. Women who exercise regularly have been shown to have a lower risk of developing breast cancer, including LCIS. It is recommended to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to maintain good health and reduce the risk of breast cancer.