What is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)?
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC), also known as infiltrating ductal carcinoma, is a form of cancer that begins in the milk ducts of the breast and has the potential to spread (metastasize) to surrounding breast tissue or other parts of the body if left untreated. IDC is the most common type of breast cancer compared to cancers that begin in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast, known as invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC).
What are the symptoms of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma?
Symptoms of IDC may include:
- Lump or Thickening: A palpable lump or thickening in the breast tissue is often the first noticeable symptom of IDC.
- Changes in Breast Appearance: Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast, including dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin.
- Nipple Changes: Changes in the appearance of the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.
What causes IDC?
The exact cause of IDC is not fully understood, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing this type of breast cancer.
These risk factors may include:
Age: The risk of IDC increases with age, particularly in women over the age of 50.
Family History: A personal or family history of breast cancer or certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, may elevate the risk of IDC.
Hormonal Factors: Hormonal influences, such as early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, may contribute to the development of IDC.
Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity may also increase the risk of IDC.
How do you treat IDC?
At The Iowa Clinic, our multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans for individuals diagnosed with IDC.
Treatment options for IDC may include:
- Surgery: Surgical options for IDC may include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Sentinel lymph node biopsy may also be performed to assess the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be recommended following surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be utilized to shrink the tumor before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) or to target cancer cells that have spread beyond the breast (adjuvant therapy).
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy may be prescribed for hormone receptor-positive IDC to block the effects of estrogen or progesterone on cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs may be used to specifically target and attack cancer cells with certain genetic mutations, such as HER2-positive IDC.
What risks are associated with IDC?
While IDC can be aggressive if left untreated, early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes. It's essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with IDC, including the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Regular screenings and self-exams can help detect IDC in its early stages when treatment is most effective.
At The Iowa Clinic, we understand the challenges and uncertainties that come with a diagnosis of IDC. Our compassionate team of healthcare professionals is here to provide you with the support, expertise, and personalized care you need throughout your cancer journey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards comprehensive breast cancer treatment and management.