Try adjusting your type
14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It begins in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding breast tissue. If undetected or untreated, it can also metastasize to other parts of the body, escalating to a potentially life-threatening condition. It can affect both men and women.
Breast cancer represents a significant global health concern, compelling the need for increased awareness, early detection, and innovative treatment methods. Among the numerous types of breast cancer that exist, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) is the most common, making up about 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses. This article provides an in-depth look into IDC, highlighting its causes, symptoms, screening and diagnostic methods, as well as potential treatment options and coping strategies.
Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast, leading to the formation of a tumor that can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. While it primarily affects women, men can also develop breast cancer. Initialization of public breast cancer awareness campaigns has contributed to improved survival rates over the past few decades. Still, the disease remains a leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide.
Early detection of breast cancer, particularly IDC, significantly improves prognoses and survival rates. Regular breast self-exams, clinical exams, and mammograms are critical components of early detection, enabling treatment to begin before the cancer spreads to other body parts.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, also known as Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma, is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts and invades surrounding breast tissue. From there, it can metastasize to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system and bloodstream.
IDC accounts for about 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Its prevalence can be attributed to the extensive network of ducts in the breast, where cancerous growths often start. Additionally, numerous subtypes of IDC exist, contributing to its overall prevalence.
IDC’s invasiveness refers to its ability to penetrate beyond the milk ducts into surrounding breast tissue and potentially travel to other body parts. This invasive property is what distinguishes IDC from Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), which remains confined within the ducts.
Genetic mutations inherited from a parent, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, dramatically increase the risk of developing IDC. However, most cases of IDC occur randomly due to DNA changes during a person’s lifetime.
Certain lifestyle elements, including alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, and hormone use, can increase IDC risk.
Extended exposure to estrogen, either through early menstruation or late menopause, increases the likelihood of developing IDC. Furthermore, hormone replacement therapy during menopause can raise IDC risk.
Certain environmental factors, like radiation exposure or carcinogen contact, may also contribute to IDC development.
Physical signs of IDC can include a breast lump, nipple discharge, inverted nipple, changes in the breast’s size or shape, and skin changes such as dimpling or scaling.
Many symptoms, such as tiny calcifications, are often not visible or palpable. These can only be identified through technological screening methods, reinforcing the importance of regular mammograms.
Regular breast exams and screening tests are crucial for early detection, especially since early-stage IDC might not cause any symptoms. Regular doctor consultations also enhance the probability of noticing changes in the breast and promptly reporting them.
Mammography, an X-ray technique, is the most common way to screen for breast cancer. It helps detect abnormalities in the breast before they become large enough to feel.
When a mammogram reveals suspicious findings, a subsequent biopsy is done to investigate further. Doctors extract a small tissue sample from the suspected area, which is then examined under a microscope to confirm or rule out cancer.
Besides mammography, other imaging tests like breast ultrasound, breast MRI, or a PET scan may be used to evaluate the size and extent of IDC.
Once IDC is diagnosed, staging is crucial to determine the cancer’s extent and plan for the treatment. Staging assessments include a physical exam and additional imaging tests.
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for IDC. A Lumpectomy involves removing the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue. A Mastectomy entails removing the entire breast. The best choice depends on the IDC’s size and stage.
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It’s typically used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be administered before surgery to shrink large tumors or afterward to kill remaining cancer cells.
Hormone therapy works by blocking hormone receptors or lowering hormone levels in the body, inhibiting the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.
Targeted therapy drugs work by specifically attacking cancer cells with certain characteristics, leaving healthy cells unharmed. They provide a promising avenue for future breast cancer treatment advancements.
A diagnosis of IDC can exact a tremendous emotional toll. Thus, emotional and mental health should be prioritized. Professional counseling or joining a support group can offer immense assistance.
Support from family members, friends, and healthcare professionals can alleviate the emotional burden of IDC. Various organizations offer support services, including counseling and patient navigation.
Healthy lifestyle choices can positively affect the body’s ability to recover and improve overall health. These include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, abstaining from alcohol, and getting sufficient sleep.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, the most common type of breast cancer, signifies a threat to public health. Its invasiveness, defined by the potential to spread from the milk ducts to other body areas, underscores the importance of early detection and prompt treatment.
Raising public awareness about IDC and promoting regular screening tests stand at the frontline of early detection efforts. By familiarizing ourselves with IDC’s common symptoms, we enhance our ability to notice any changes and take appropriate action swiftly.
The survival rate for IDC varies based on various factors, including the cancer’s stage and the patient’s overall health. However, with early detection and proper treatment they generally high, with 5-year survival rate at nearly 90% for localized IDC.
While IDC can develop at any age, it’s most commonly diagnosed in women in their late 50s to early 60s.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk. This includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding hormone replacement therapy when possible. Regular breast cancer screenings are also essential for early detection.
Yes, there are several types of invasive breast cancer, including Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC), Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), and others. However, IDC is the most common.
The primary difference between IDC and DCIS is their invasiveness. Whereas IDC invades surrounding breast tissue and potentially other body parts, DCIS remains confined within the milk ducts.
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