Imaging of Breast Cancers With Predilection for Nonmass Pattern of Growth: Invasive Lobular Carcinoma and DCIS-Does Imaging Capture It All?

Abstract

<b>OBJECTIVE.</b> Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are distinct histopathologic entities with several commonalities: both have subtle clinical and imaging presentation, have been linked with controversy regarding optimal imaging techniques and management, and exemplify the codependence of adequate imaging evaluation and optimal treatment strategies in breast care. <b>CONCLUSION.</b> We review molecular mechanisms and histopathologic patterns that define the biologic behavior of both ILC and DCIS and discuss how these mechanisms translate into distinct clinical and imaging presentations that affect the staging workup and patient management algorithm.