The Different Types of Breast Cancer, Explained

Subtypes Of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma

Invasive ductal carcinoma is the most common form of breast cancer where cancerous cells have developed from the cells that line the milk ducts and have metastasized to surrounding structures. The milk ducts in the breast are the small tubes that carry milk from the lobules producing the milk to the nipple. Tubular carcinoma is a subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma where the tumor measures one centimeter or less and possesses tubule characteristics. Medullary carcinoma is a subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma where the tumor resembles a soft structure of the brain referred to as the medulla. Mucinous carcinoma is a subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma where the abnormal cells are suspended in pools of mucin or the main component of mucus. Papillary carcinoma is a subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma where the tumor has fingerlike projections and a well-defined border. Cribriform carcinoma is a subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma where the malignant cells infiltrate the connective tissues in the breast in nest-like arrangements between the lobules and ducts.

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