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Is DCIS really cancer?

Page last modified on: October 13, 2008
Question from Earthact: What is the latest on whether DCIS is really cancer or not?
Answer —Beth DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.: DCIS is a form of breast cancer that we consider a non-invasive, or not having broken through the duct wall into the breast. Ductal carcinoma in situ is a very diverse form of non-invasive cancer and depending on the specific pathology (whether the DCIS is low-grade, intermediate-grade or high-grade) combined with the extent of the disease will determine the appropriate form of treatment. A confusion often comes up between the disease we call lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or lobular neoplasia and DCIS, as LCIS is considered a marker for future risk of breast cancer and DCIS is truly a form of breast cancer that is non-invasive. Their treatments are completely different.

On Wednesday, September 20, 2006, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Open for Your Questions. Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P. and moderator Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. answered your questions covering a wide variety of issues relating to breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P.Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P. is associate professor of clinical medicine at New York University School of Medicine. She is the founder of The Women's Oncology & Wellness Practice in New York City where she specializes in treating women with breast cancer and other malignancies, as well as women at risk for cancer. 

Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a general surgeon. Her clinical practice is located at Holy Redeemer Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center.

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