Hi and thanks for the post  

It can be difficult waiting for all the results to come in to get a definitive diagnosis - it's very stressful.

Because the surgery removes much more of the affected area there is more to look at under the microscope and get a better idea of what type of breast cancer can exactly be seen.

So results do sometimes change after surgery which I can appreciate while you're waiting for these to come back, is not an easy period.

The results certainly don't always change though and a carcinoma in situ means that it has stayed within the walls and has not become invasive, meaning that it is at a very early stage.

I hope you don't have to wait too long and if you would like a chat at any time, do give us a ring - the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best

Wanda

Hello LauraJane and thank you for getting back in touch.

The biopsy tells us what is the matter for example if it is cancer , pre-cancer or benign (not cancer). It can also say if the cancer is in-situ or is invasive. In-situ means that the cancer or pre-cancerous cells are non-invasive; meaning it hasn't spread out of the milk duct and invaded the breast tissue.  Breast cancers or pre-cancerous cells that are called invasive mean that the cancer is not contained in the milk duct and has spread into the breast tissue.

The surgery you have been offered is to remove the abnormal area and an area around it.  When all of this breast tissue is checked by a pathologist sometimes both in-situ cells and invasive cells are seen. 

If invasive cancer is found then the lymph nodes may be checked out to see if it has spread. Scans such as a CT or MRI might be needed if there is concern that the cancer could have spread.

Not all breast cancer needs to be treated with chemotherapy. Sometimes radiotherapy is needed and also hormonal treatment. You can read more about how breast cancer is treated on our website here.

I realise that this a worrying time for you so I hope you will be okay and I  hope your breast surgery goes well. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take care,

Caroline