Types of breast cancer and related breast conditions

There are different types of breast cancer and breast conditions. Invasive breast cancer or invasive ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer.

Find out about each type of breast cancer or condition. Each type includes a summary of what they are, the symptoms, how they are diagnosed and the treatment you might have.

Invasive breast cancer

Invasive breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer. Most invasive breast cancers have no special features and are classed as No Special Type (NST).

Invasive lobular breast cancer

Invasive lobular breast cancer is the second most common type of breast cancer. It's also known as invasive lobular carcinoma.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is an early breast cancer. It means that some of the cells lining the breast ducts have started to turn into cancer cells. Find out about the symptoms, how common it is, treatment and research into DCIS.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)

LCIS isn't cancer. LCIS means that some cells lining the lobules of the breast tissue have started to become abnormal.

Triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer. It means that the breast cancer cells don’t have receptors for the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, and a protein called HER2. 

Inflammatory breast cancer

This is a rare type of breast cancer. The breast might look swollen and red (inflamed) and may feel warm.

Breast cancer in men

Breast cancer in men is rare. Find out how it is diagnosed and treated and where to get help and support.

Rare types of breast cancer

There are some rare types of breast cancer. Some of these include medullary, metaplastic, and mucinous breast cancers. Find out about some of these rarer types and how they are treated.

Paget’s disease of the breast

Paget's disease is a rare skin condition of the nipple that is associated with some breast cancers. Find out what it is and how it is diagnosed and treated.

Intraductal papilloma

Intraductal papilloma is a benign breast condition. This means it is not cancer.

Atypical hyperplasia in a breast lump

Atypical hyperplasia is when the cells in the breast increase in number and also develop an unusual shape. It is not cancer.

Last reviewed: 
26 May 2023
Next review due: 
26 May 2026