It's not breast cancer, but what is it?
Lobular carcinoma in situ, also known as lobular neoplasia, is a cluster of abnormal cells that grow in the milk glands in the breast. It usually happens in both breasts, and while it's much more common in women, men can also have it.
Lobular carcinoma in situ is not breast cancer, but having it can increase your risk of getting breast cancer later.
To schedule an appointment with a breast cancer specialist at Main Line Health, call 1.866.CALL.MLH (225.5654) or use our secure online appointment request form.
Some breast disease can be diagnosed by accident
Lobular carcinoma in situ doesn't cause any symptoms, and it doesn't show up on a mammogram. In many cases, you may not know that you have it unless:
- You have a biopsy for something else on your mammogram that looked abnormal
- You have a breast lump removed for different reasons
In both of these cases, a tissue sample taken for a different reason may show that you have lobular carcinoma in situ.
What should I do if I have lobular carcinoma in situ?
Since lobular carcinoma in situ isn't cancer, it doesn't need treatment. If you're using hormone replacement therapy for menopause, your doctor may suggest that you switch to a different type to help lower your risk of developing breast cancer.
Since women with lobular carcinoma in situ are at a higher risk for getting breast cancer later, you'll need regular breast cancer screenings like a yearly mammogram and regular breast exams.
