Question regarding recurrance of DCIS

Options
Islandgirl17
Islandgirl17 Member Posts: 28
edited July 2014 in DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)

I have seen a couple of times here in the forum, the following statement:  "...50% of DCIS recurrences are not found until the cancer has evolved to become invasive."   

Can someone explain the premise behind this?  If those of us with DCIS are being monitored closely, why would a recurrence not be found until the cancer has become invasive?

I have seen Beesie mention this a couple of times.  Does anyone have any links regarding studies on this, or any information that would allow me to read further on it?

Thanks!

Linda

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • lane4
    lane4 Member Posts: 175
    edited July 2014

    Hi, Islandgirl17 - Beesie is like the resident DCIS expert here; she has done extensive research. Maybe she will come along soon to clarify. But until she does, I thought I'd add my two cents worth. I think the main reason that half of the DCIS recurrences are found after they have become invasive is because after initial treatment, we are left with scar tissue that is hard to see through. That is why some doctors recommend alternating mammos and MRIs. Plus, no one can predict just when the cells may develop the ability to break through the ductal membrane.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories