What is the Difference Between Invasive and Non Invasive Breast Cancer?

The main difference between invasive and non-invasive breast cancer lies in whether the cancer cells have spread beyond their original location.

Non-invasive breast cancer is contained inside the milk ducts or lobules, and the cancer cells have not spread to other tissues outside the duct or lobule. The most common types of non-invasive breast cancer are:

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Occurs when cells within the duct are abnormal, but have not spread to other tissues outside the duct.
• Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS): Occurs when cells within the lobules (milk-producing glands) are abnormal, but have not spread to other tissues outside the lobule. Although LCIS is not considered cancer, it increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

Invasive breast cancer means that the cancer has spread beyond the ducts or lobules into the surrounding tissues. The most common types of invasive breast cancer are:

• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): Begins in the ducts and grows into nearby breast tissues.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the lobules and grows into nearby breast tissues.

In general, invasive breast cancer requires more treatment than non-invasive breast cancer, as it has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body. While some non-invasive breast cancers may not need immediate treatment, invasive breast cancers typically require surgery, such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the size and location of the tumor.

Comparative Table: Invasive vs Non Invasive Breast Cancer

Invasive and non-invasive breast cancer are two different types of breast cancer based on histopathological findings. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

Invasive breast cancer is more common and tends to be aggressive, requiring immediate treatment. Non-invasive breast cancer, also known as in situ breast cancer, is referred to as Stage 0 and typically has a better prognosis.