Neoductgenesis in Ductal Carcinoma In Situ Coexists with Morphological Abnormalities Characteristic for More Aggressive Tumor Biology

Abstract

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive form of breast cancer that is generally indolent, however, could advance to invasive carcinoma in more than one-third of cases if left untreated. Thus, there is continuous research to find DCIS characteristics that would enable clinicians to decide if it could be left without intensive treatment. Neoductgenesis (i.e., formation of the new duct of improper morphology) is a promising, but still not sufficiently evaluated indicator of future tumor invasiveness. We gathered data from 96 cases of DCIS (histopathological, clinical, and radiological) to assess the relationship between the neoductgenesis and well-established features of high-risk tumor behavior. Furthermore, our intention was to determine which degree of neoductgenesis should be considered clinically significant. Our major finding was that neoductgenesis is strictly related to other characteristics that indicate the invasive potential of the tumor and, to achieve more accurate prediction, neoductgenesis should be accordingly recognized to less strict criteria. Therefore, we conclude that neoductgenesis is another important revelator of tumor malignancy and that it requires further investigation during prospective controlled trials.