Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts and has not yet spread to nearby tissue. DCIS is considered a non-invasive breast cancer, which means that it has not yet spread to other parts of the body.

DCIS is detected through a mammogram or breast biopsy, and often does not show any symptoms. The exact causes of DCIS are not fully understood, but researchers believe that it is linked to hormonal changes and exposure to certain environmental factors.

Risk factors

Risk factors for developing DCIS include age (the risk increases as women get older), family history of breast cancer, previous breast biopsies, and certain genetic mutations.

While DCIS is not considered a life-threatening condition, it can increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer in the future. Therefore, treatment is often recommended to remove the cancerous tissue.

Treatment

Treatment options for DCIS include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and personal preferences.

Oriental medicine

In addition to traditional Western medicine, some people may consider alternative or complementary therapies to manage DCIS symptoms or prevent future cancer. Oriental medicine, which includes acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal remedies, is often used in conjunction with traditional cancer treatments.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve symptoms. Acupressure is a similar technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body with the fingers or other tools.

While some studies have suggested that acupuncture and acupressure may be helpful in managing cancer-related symptoms, there is limited research on their effectiveness in treating DCIS specifically. Herbal remedies may also be used in Oriental medicine, but it is important to note that not all herbal remedies are safe or effective.

Overall, it is important for individuals with DCIS to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their individual needs and preferences. While alternative or complementary therapies may be helpful in managing symptoms or promoting overall health, they should not be used as a substitute for traditional cancer treatments.

It is also important for individuals with DCIS to take steps to reduce their risk of developing invasive breast cancer in the future. This may include making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.

Regular breast cancer screenings, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, are also important for early detection and treatment of any potential cancerous changes in the breast tissue.

In addition to traditional Western medicine and Oriental medicine, some individuals may also consider integrative medicine, which combines conventional Western medicine with complementary and alternative therapies. Integrative medicine may include therapies such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and massage therapy, which can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.

It is important to note that while some alternative or complementary therapies may have benefits for individuals with DCIS, they should not be used as a replacement for traditional cancer treatments. It is essential for individuals to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive breast cancer that can increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer in the future. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy. While some individuals may consider alternative or complementary therapies, it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses individual needs and preferences. Taking steps to reduce the risk of developing invasive breast cancer, such as making lifestyle changes and regularly screening for breast cancer, is also essential for overall health and well-being.

References :

• "Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: Current State of the Science and a Clinician's Guide" by Susan G. Komen Foundation (2020): This guide provides an overview of the current state of knowledge about DCIS, including information on risk factors, screening and diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing research efforts. It also includes a section on complementary and alternative therapies, including acupuncture, massage, and yoga, that may be helpful for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

• "Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ" by Angela Smith et al. (2019): This study examines the use of complementary and alternative therapies among women with DCIS, including acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies. The authors discuss the potential benefits and risks of these therapies, and highlight the need for further research to determine their effectiveness.

• "Acupuncture for the Treatment of Hot Flashes in Women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by Jun J. Mao et al. (2015): This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of hot flashes in women with DCIS. The authors conclude that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

• "Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ and Invasive Breast Cancer" by Heather Greenlee et al. (2014): This study examines the use of complementary and alternative therapies among women with DCIS and invasive breast cancer, including acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies. The authors discuss the potential benefits and risks of these therapies, and highlight the need for further research to determine their effectiveness.

• "The Role of Acupuncture in Breast Cancer Treatment" by Yuelong Wang et al. (2019): This review article discusses the use of acupuncture in the treatment of breast cancer, including DCIS. The authors highlight the potential benefits of acupuncture for managing symptoms such as pain, hot flashes, and fatigue, and discuss the need for further research to determine its effectiveness.

• "Massage Therapy for Symptom Control: Outcome Study at a Major Cancer Center" by Jeanne Massingill et al. (2015): This study examines the use of massage therapy for symptom control in cancer patients, including those with DCIS. The authors conclude that massage therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for managing symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and fatigue.

• "The Use of Chinese Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Breast Cancer" by Peter D. Karpinski et al. (2018): This review article discusses the use of Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of breast cancer, including DCIS. The authors highlight the potential benefits of herbal remedies for managing symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, and nausea, and discuss the need for further research to determine their effectiveness.

• "Yoga for Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Karen Mustian et al. (2017): This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of yoga for breast cancer survivors, including those with DCIS. The authors conclude that yoga is a safe and effective treatment option for managing symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

• "Mind-Body Therapies in Breast Cancer Treatment" by David Spiegel (2014): This review article discusses the use of mind-body therapies, including acupuncture, massage, and yoga, in the treatment of breast cancer, including DCIS. The author highlights the potential benefits of these therapies for managing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and anxiety, and discusses the need for further research to determine their effectiveness.

• "Acupressure for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Breast Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by Yuelong Wang et al. (2017): This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of acupressure for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients, including those with DCIS. The authors conclude that acupressure is a safe and effective treatment option for reducing the severity and frequency of these symptoms.