Advanced Treatment for Ductal Carcinoma in Southern California

Ductal carcinoma breast cancer starts in the milk ducts. Invasive ductal carcinoma has spread to other breast tissues or parts of the body. It accounts for 80 percent of cases and is the most common type of breast cancer. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or noninvasive ductal carcinoma, is the earliest form of breast cancer (stage 0). In these cases, the cancer has not spread beyond the milk duct. 

At Dignity Health Southern California hospitals, our doctors and staff use breakthrough therapies to aggressively treat breast cancer. Your care team includes nurses, social workers, and support staff, in addition to highly trained radiation therapists and oncologists. Find a Doctor who specializes in treating ductal carcinoma in Southern California at one of our hospitals.

Ductal Carcinoma Symptoms

There are usually no symptoms for noninvasive ductal carcinoma. Invasive ductal carcinoma may cause skin or nipple changes, a lump, pain, swelling, or nipple discharge. 

Ductal carcinoma is usually found during a mammogram, which is why it’s important to keep up with the recommended cancer screenings for women.

Diagnosing Ductal Carcinoma

If your doctor sees small clusters or specks on your mammogram, you will likely need a biopsy to learn more. A biopsy will help determine the right treatment plan for you and if you need surgery. It may also reveal the grade, type, and hormone receptor status of the cancer. 

Treatment for Ductal Carcinoma at Dignity Health Southern California

Most cases of ductal carcinoma require surgery, even if the cancer hasn’t spread beyond the milk duct. If total mastectomy isn’t required, your doctor may perform a lumpectomy to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. Radiation therapy will be necessary to ensure all of the cancer cells are gone. The stage of the breast cancer will determine how much tissue will need to be removed. 

Other treatments for ductal carcinoma besides surgery include targeted therapy and chemotherapy. If the ductal carcinoma is hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy may help slow or stop its growth. 

Your experienced care team at Dignity Health Southern California will ensure you receive personalized treatment options catered to your needs.

Dignity Health oncologists diagnose and treat ductal carcinoma in Southern California.