Skip to main content
Intermediate Technical IVT

invasive ductal carcinoma

Most common type of breast cancer that begins in milk ducts and spreads to surrounding breast tissue.

Full Definition

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most prevalent form of breast cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all invasive breast cancers. This cancer type originates in the cells lining the milk ducts and then breaks through the duct walls to invade surrounding breast tissue. From there, it has the potential to spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body. IDC can occur at any age but is most common in women over 55. The cancer typically appears as a hard, irregular mass on imaging and physical examination.

Usage

Usage note: IDC is acceptable abbreviation in clinical contexts.

In Context

  • "Pathology confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma, grade 2, measuring 1.8 cm." — Pathology report
  • "IDC represents the majority of breast cancer diagnoses." — Patient education material

Also known as

IDC infiltrating ductal carcinoma

Contrasted with

invasive lobular carcinoma ductal carcinoma in situ

Don't confuse with

invasive lobular carcinoma ductal carcinoma in situ

Editors from these organisations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON