Living with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is found in the mammary lobes of the breast, which are the bulbs that produce breast milk. It is the second most common form of breast cancer after invasive ductal carcinoma. ILC is harder to identify than IDC because it does not form as a lump butrather forms by a thickening of tissue. ILC is higher risk because, unlike IDC, it is harder to locate on a mammogram. ILC also has a bigger chance of breaking out into the lymphatic system of the body.

About 1 out of 10 breast cancers are ILC. It can affect woman of all ages, but it is about 65% more common in women that are over the age of 55. Because it is hard to identify on a mammogram, it is important to know some of the signs of ILC. Signs are a place of swelling on the breast, any unfamiliar skin irritation, breast or nipple pain, nipple discharge (other than breast milk), and a lump in the armpit. Treatment options for ILC include surgery and radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. Suggested treatments of ILC are very case specific.

For more information on invasive lobular carcinoma, read the American Cancer Society’s detailed guide.

If you have been affected by invasive lobular carcinoma take some time to read others’ experiences. Share your own experiences, ask, or answer questions here.