PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

When discussing classic "breast cancer," what specific form are surgeons referring to?

1. Invasive lobular carcinoma

2. Invasive ductal carcinoma

3. Non-invasive ductal carcinoma

4. Paget's disease of the nipple

The correct answer is: Invasive ductal carcinoma

In the context of breast cancer, when surgeons refer to "classic breast cancer," they are predominantly speaking about invasive ductal carcinoma. This is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all diagnosed cases. Invasive ductal carcinoma arises from the cells lining the ducts of the breast and has the ability to invade surrounding breast tissue, which underscores its invasiveness. The significance of recognizing invasive ductal carcinoma as the "classic" form lies in its prevalence and the typical presentation patterns seen in clinical practice. Surgeons and oncologists often encounter this type of cancer in their patient populations, and it serves as a critical reference point for diagnosis, treatment planning, and research studies focused on breast cancer. Understanding this specific type enriches the discussion about screening methods, surgical approaches, and the impact of various pathological features on prognosis and treatment response, setting a foundation for addressing other less common forms of breast cancer.