ILC explained
Understanding invasive lobular carcinoma
The short version
ILC (invasive lobular carcinoma) starts in the lobules — the milk-producing glands — rather than the ducts, and can grow in a pattern that is sometimes harder to feel as a distinct lump or see clearly on a mammogram.
(invasive lobular carcinoma) is the second most common type of invasive breast cancer, after . It starts in the lobules — the glands that produce milk — rather than in the milk ducts.
Why it can look different on imaging
ILC sometimes grows in a single-file pattern through breast tissue rather than forming one solid lump, which can make it less noticeable on a mammogram or exam than other types. A breast MRI is sometimes used alongside a mammogram to get a fuller picture.
ILC is often ER-positive. Many of the same staging, grading, and biomarker principles that apply to other invasive breast cancers apply here too — ask your care team how they specifically apply to your case.
Questions you may want to ask
Did imaging capture the full extent of the disease, or is more imaging recommended?
How does ILC affect the surgical approach you are recommending?