Info
Carcinoma in situ
An early form of cancer in which the abnormal cells stay at their site of origin, without invading the surrounding tissues. It is the most treatable stage.
What it means
An early-stage cancer in which the abnormal cells have not yet invaded the surrounding tissues. It is considered the most treatable stage.
In short
An early form of cancer in which the abnormal cells stay at their site of origin, without invading the surrounding tissues. It is the most treatable stage.
Where you will see it
Mentioned in the histopathology or cytology report (e.g. a Pap test). Common in breast cancer (DCIS), cervix and bladder.
What it does not tell you on its own
It does not say whether the cells will progress, does not establish the definitive treatment and does not guarantee that there is no invasion in another area.
Questions for your doctor
- Does carcinoma in situ mean actual cancer?
- Is there a risk of progression?
- What treatment is recommended?
- Is additional monitoring needed?
Related terms
The terms below often appear alongside this one. Each definition is right here, so you do not have to look elsewhere.
- Carcinoma
- A type of cancer that starts in the epithelial cells, that is, the cells that line the skin or the surface of certain organs. It is one of the most common classes of cancer and includes several subtypes, depending on the organ of origin.
- Histopathology
- The examination under the microscope of tissue taken by biopsy or surgery. The histopathology report describes the type of cells, the tumor grade and other details that help establish the diagnosis and treatment.
- Resection margins
- The area of healthy tissue removed together with the tumor during an operation. If the margins are clear, it means that no cancer cells can be seen under the microscope at the edge of the removed piece.
Other terms in “Diagnosis”
Glossary definitions are written for patients by the OncoDots team and go through internal medical review. They explain terms; they do not establish a diagnosis and do not recommend a treatment.