Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Diagnosis

An invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosis is confirmed in approximately 80 percent of all breast cancer cases. This type of cancer begins growing in a milk duct and eventually invades the fatty breast tissue outside of the duct. Similar to most other forms of breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma does not always produce signs. However, routine breast screening often detects cancer before symptoms develop. Additionally, anyone who detects a breast lump or mass, or any other unusual breast change, should see a physician right away for further evaluation.

Some common methods that a physician might use to confirm or rule out an invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosis include:

• Clinical breast examination
• Diagnostic imaging through digital mammography, full-breast tomosynthesis, automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) and/or breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Fine-needle aspiration
• Pathological evaluation of a stereotactic, core or surgical biopsy
• Ductogram

At Moffitt Cancer Center, we understand that patients who are facing the possibility of breast cancer may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed, and probably have a lot of questions. Our Don & Erika Wallace Comprehensive Breast Program was established with this in mind. In a single, convenient location, our patients have access to the very latest diagnostic, therapeutic and supportive care services, along with the expert guidance of our multispecialty tumor board at every step of the way. We have strict guidelines for biopsy and pathology reports and perform these assessments in our on-site lab, and our goal is to provide accurate results as quickly as possible. In this way, we ensure that our patients receive prompt and appropriate treatment, which has continually led to breast cancer outcomes that exceed national averages, along with a better quality of life for our patients.

Medically reviewed by Tanisha Henry, Certified Physician Assistant, Breast Oncology Program.

Whether you are experiencing symptoms or you were recently diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosis and would like a second opinion, you are welcome to consult with the experts at Moffitt with or without a referral. Call 1-888-663-3488 or complete a new patient registration form online.