Breast cancer types4 min read

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)

Despite the word carcinoma, LCIS is not cancer. It is a marker of increased future risk, usually managed with surveillance rather than surgery.

LCIS describes abnormal cells confined to the lobules. It does not invade tissue and does not spread, which is why most specialists treat it as a risk marker rather than a cancer in itself.

What having LCIS means

  • Your future risk of breast cancer is moderately increased
  • The risk affects both breasts, not just the side with LCIS
  • Typical management is surveillance plus risk-reducing measures
  • Surgery is rarely needed for LCIS alone

The practical plan is usually annual imaging, regular clinical exams and a healthy lifestyle — turning a frightening name into a manageable routine.

In brief

Not cancer — a risk marker
Raises future risk in both breasts
Managed with surveillance

What you can do

Keep the surveillance schedule

Annual imaging becomes your safety net.

Ask about prevention

Some people may benefit from risk-reducing medication.

Keep learning

Stage 0 — carcinoma in situAwarenessDuctal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)AwarenessBreast cancer risk factorsAwareness