Ask Dr Miriam

QI’ve been diagnosed with DCIS which my doctor has assured me is not a frightening form of breast cancer. What can I expect?

AYour doctor is right. DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) very rarely shortens your life. If you get breast cancer, DCIS has the best prognosis. The “in situ” means it hasn’t spread.

Most DCIS is treated with a lumpectomy so your breast is conserved. This is often followed by radiotherapy for your whole breast (WBRT). This reduces the risk of recurrence. Your doctor should advise you on the health benefits and risks of radiotherapy, taking into consideration the severity of your DCIS (low, intermediate or high grade) and any other health problems you may have. I’m sure your doctor will tell you that we’re still uncertain about the benefits of treatment. Because of this you might wish to explore what type of treatment is best after you discuss it fully with your doctor.