Types of breast cancer
Breast cancer is not a single disease. Doctors describe it by where it started, whether it has spread, and how the cells behave. You do not need to memorise these, because your care team will explain your exact diagnosis, but recognising the names can help you follow what you are told.
Non-invasive (in situ)
DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) is a very early cancer that is still contained inside a duct and has not spread into surrounding tissue. It is highly treatable, which is one more reason early detection matters so much.
Invasive breast cancer
These have grown beyond where they started into nearby breast tissue:
- Invasive ductal carcinoma, the most common type, which starts in a duct
- Invasive lobular carcinoma, which starts in the milk-making lobules
Less common types
- Inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and fast-growing type that often shows as redness and swelling rather than a clear lump
- Triple-negative breast cancer, which needs specific treatment approaches
- Secondary (metastatic) breast cancer, meaning cancer that has spread to other parts of the body
Why the type matters
The type and features of a breast cancer guide the best treatment, whether that is surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy. That is why getting a proper diagnosis early gives the most options.
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References: nationalbreastcancer.org, breastcancer.org, breastcancernow.org. This page is general information, not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you notice a change, see a clinician.