What is lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)?
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a rare condition where unusual cells are found in your lobules. These lobules are the small glands in your breasts that produce milk.
Even though the name includes the word "carcinoma" (which means cancer), LCIS is not actually breast cancer. The unusual cells in your breast glands are not malignant. Because they are "in situ" (which means "in its original place"), they do not grow into invasive cancer or spread from the lobules to other parts of your breast.
Having LCIS does not mean you are seriously ill right now. However, receiving this diagnosis does mean you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
What are the different types of LCIS?
Doctors categorize lobular carcinoma in situ based on how the unusual cells look when viewed under a microscope:
- Classic LCIS: Tests show that your lobules are lined with cells that are smaller than normal.
- Pleomorphic LCIS: The cells look very different and are larger than healthy cells.
- Florid LCIS: A large group of unusual cells is growing in your lobules. Doctors may see a small area of dead cells in the middle of this group during testing.
What symptoms should I look for?
Usually, LCIS does not cause any symptoms. Most people find out they have breast cancer when they feel a lump, but LCIS is different. It is typically discovered by a doctor while they are checking the results of a breast biopsy that was originally done for a completely different reason.
Why does LCIS happen?
Scientists know that healthy cells in your lobules can turn into unusual cells because of changes in their genes. However, they are still not exactly sure what causes this change to happen in the first place.
What are the possible complications?
While it does not happen often, LCIS has the potential to turn into lobular breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Research shows that about 1 in 10 people with LCIS will develop one of these conditions. You should ask your doctor to explain what you should expect based on your specific case.
How is LCIS tested and diagnosed?
If a test shows unusual cells in your lobules, your doctor may ask for a second biopsy. This is done to find and remove any other unusual cells. A specialist called a pathologist will then look at these cells under a microscope to figure out exactly which type of LCIS you have.
How is LCIS handled and treated?
The way you are treated depends on the specific type of LCIS you have. For example, if you have classic LCIS, your doctor might suggest "active surveillance" or preventive therapy. If you have florid or pleomorphic LCIS, you might need surgery.
What is active surveillance?
This involves regular check-ups and tests to keep a close watch on your health. Your doctor might perform a breast exam every six months and will likely ask you to get a mammogram every year. They might also suggest extra tests, like a breast MRI scan.
What is preventive treatment?
The goal of preventive therapy is to stop the unusual cells in your lobules from ever turning into cancer. Common medications include:
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Your doctor might suggest these if you have a higher risk of a specific type of cancer called ER-positive breast cancer.
Aromatase Inhibitors: These are similar to SERMs and are also used to help prevent or treat ER-positive breast cancer.
When is surgery necessary?
A surgeon might suggest a procedure if tests show you have pleomorphic or florid LCIS. Options include:
- Lumpectomy: The doctor removes the unusual cells along with a small amount of the healthy tissue around them.
- Prophylactic Bilateral Mastectomy: This is the removal of both breasts. A doctor might suggest this if you have a very high risk, such as if your mother, sister, or daughter has had breast cancer.
What is the long-term outlook?
Your experience will depend on your specific situation and the type of LCIS you have. If you feel unsure, ask your doctor to explain exactly what is happening in your breast and go over your treatment options. Knowing your choices will help you feel more confident about your health plan.
Can LCIS be prevented?
Unfortunately, researchers do not know enough about LCIS yet to give a guaranteed way to prevent it. However, you can take these steps to lower your overall risk of breast problems:
- Manage your weight: Being overweight can increase your risk of breast cancer.
- Stay active: Doctors generally recommend 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (about 30 minutes a day, five days a week).
- Avoid alcohol: Studies show a link between drinking alcohol and breast cancer. It is recommended that women limit themselves to no more than one drink per day.
- Review your medications: Certain hormone therapies or birth control pills can increase your risk. Ask your doctor if your current prescriptions are safe for you given your LCIS diagnosis.
How can I take care of myself while living with LCIS?
Beyond eating well and exercising, you can stay proactive by:
- Learning how your breasts normally feel so you can notice any changes.
- Performing a breast self-exam every month.
- Attending every single follow-up appointment with your doctor.
Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) treatment in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced oncologists and breast cancer specialists, known as some of the best doctors for managing high-risk breast conditions. We provide accurate diagnosis with advanced imaging and biopsy tests, personalized risk-reduction strategies, close surveillance, and treatment when required. Our team has decades of experience in successfully managing Lobular Carcinoma in Situ in Lucknow, India.
To seek an Expert Consultation for Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS) treatment in Lucknow, India:
Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com
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