invasive ductal carcinoma of breast

Last reviewed 01/2018

Invasive ductal carcinoma describes a malignant tumour that has invaded through the basement membrane. Some have specific histological features:

  • medullary
  • tubular
  • mucinous
  • papillary
  • cribriform

The remaining types are described as infiltrating ductal carcinoma, not otherwise specified (NOS).

It is rarely multifocal or bilateral. It tends to metastasize to bone, liver and brain. In situ disease progresses to invasive carcinoma at a rate of 50% over a 15 year period.