Lobular Carcinoma In Situ

Lobular carcinoma in situ is the presence of abnormal cells in the breast. These abnormal cells are located in the glands that produce milk (lobules), and the cells have not spread to other areas.

Lobular carcinoma in situ is not a form of cancer. However, having lobular carcinoma in situ increases your risk of developing breast cancer in either breast.

What are the causes?

The exact cause of lobular carcinoma in situ is not known.

What increases the risk?

The risk for lobular carcinoma in situ increases in women who are over age 40. You are also more likely to develop this condition if you:

• Have a family history of breast cancer.
• Have used or currently use hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, or birth control pills.
• Have certain genes that are passed from parent to child (inherited).

What are the signs or symptoms?

Lobular carcinoma in situ does not cause any symptoms.

How is this diagnosed?

Lobular carcinoma in situ is diagnosed with a test called a breast biopsy. During a breast biopsy, a sample of breast tissue is removed and then examined under a microscope.

How is this treated?

Treatment for this condition may include:

• More frequent monitoring of breast health. You may have regular:
  • Clinical breast exams.
  • Mammograms.
  • Ultrasounds.
  • MRIs.
• Medicines to keep the abnormal cells from spreading and becoming cancerous.
• Lumpectomy. This is surgery to remove the area of abnormal cells, along with normal tissue in the surrounding area. This may also be called breast-conserving surgery.
• Preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy. This is surgery to remove both breasts. The type of mastectomy done may include removing breast tissue, the nipple, and the circle of colored tissue around the nipple (areola). This is usually done only if you have a very high risk of developing breast cancer. You may choose to have breast reconstruction surgery to restore the shape of your breast after a mastectomy.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink a day for nonpregnant women and 2 drinks a day for men. One drink equals 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1½ oz of hard liquor.
• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
• Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet includes lots of fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and fiber.
  • Make sure half your plate is filled with fruits or vegetables.
  • Choose high-fiber foods such as whole-grain breads and cereals.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have a fever.
• You have any symptoms or changes that concern you.
• You notice new fatigue or weakness.

Get help right away if:

• You have chest pain or trouble breathing.
• You faint.

Summary

• Lobular carcinoma in situ is the presence of abnormal cells in the breast.
• Lobular carcinoma in situ is not a form of cancer. However, having lobular carcinoma in situ increases your risk of developing breast cancer in either breast.
• Treatment for this condition may include frequent monitoring of breast health, medicines, or surgery.