ductal carcinoma in situ

Definition of ductal carcinoma in situ

ductal carcinoma in situ

(DUK-tul KAR-sih-NOH-muh in SY-too)
A condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct. The abnormal cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, ductal carcinoma in situ may become invasive breast cancer and spread to other tissues. At this time, there is no way to know which abnormal cells could become invasive. Also called DCIS and intraductal breast carcinoma.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms