Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), also known as infiltrating breast cancer, is the most common invasive breast cancer (cancer that has grown into surrounding breast tissue). It is also the most common type of male breast cancer.
At Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, our breast cancer team provides comprehensive care for IDC at every stage. We personalize your care with expert surgery, innovative treatment and compassionate support.
What Is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma?
IDC begins in the breast’s milk ducts and grows into nearby tissue. In time, it may move through the lymph nodes or bloodstream to other areas of the body, becoming metastatic breast cancer.
Diagnosing Invasive Breast Cancer
We typically find IDC during routine breast cancer screening. Some people may notice symptoms that include a lump or unusual changes to the breast, but IDC does not always present with typical breast cancer symptoms.
If screening suggests breast cancer, we use additional tests and a biopsy (tissue sample) to confirm the diagnosis. The size of the initial tumor and the extent of cancer spread determines the stage of breast cancer. Learn more about how we diagnose breast cancer.
Some women may be diagnosed with a rare subtype of IDC. These diagnoses each make up less than 5 percent of all breast cancers. Less common forms of IDC include:
- Medullary carcinoma
- Metaplastic carcinoma
- Mucinous (or colloid) carcinoma
- Papillary carcinoma
- Tubular carcinoma
IDC: The Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Advantage
Invasive ductal carcinoma requires comprehensive care from diagnosis through post-treatment follow-up. Our breast cancer team offers innovative care for every aspect of IDC in a patient-centered, community setting. At Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, you can expect:
- Breast cancer experts: Our multidisciplinary team of oncologists and surgeons has experience and in-depth knowledge of breast cancer. They provide personalized and unparalleled care. Meet our breast cancer team.
- Access to the newest treatments: We collaborate with our colleagues in Philadelphia to offer the newest, most promising treatments. Along with standard care, we offer advanced therapies through clinical trials whenever possible.
- Constant support: We offer guidance and support for the duration of your care. Our certified oncology nurse navigators coordinate your treatments, so you don’t have to. They also connect you with resources including financial assistance, counseling and services to ease treatment side effects. Learn more about our breast cancer support services.
- Convenient care: We provide expert cancer care close to where you live. All breast cancer appointments and most treatments take place in Lancaster at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute. We perform surgeries at the Suburban Outpatient Pavilion and Lancaster General Hospital. Learn more about our breast cancer care locations.
Our Approach to Invasive Ductal Carcinoma treatment
Our expert and precise diagnosis helps your oncology team determine the most effective treatment for you. As part of Penn Medicine, we offer new and innovative treatments for every stage of IDC right here in Lancaster. We work as a team to tailor your breast cancer treatment, which may include:
Request an Appointment
To make an appointment at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, call 717-544-9400 or request an appointment using our online form.