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 (no special type) is the most common type of breast cancer.

Invasive lobular breast cancer

Invasive lobular breast cancer is the second most common type of breast cancer.

Triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer. Around 15 out of 100 (15%) of breast cancers are of this type. Find out about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Inflammatory breast cancer

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

Rare types of breast cancer

There are some rare types of breast cancer. Find out about some of these rare types and how they are treated.

Angiosarcoma of the breast

Angiosarcomas of the breast are a type of soft tissue sarcoma. They start in cells in the walls of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels.

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.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) means that some of the cells lining the breast ducts have started to become abnormal. 

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.

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.

Last reviewed: 
26 May 2023
Next review due: 
26 May 2026
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer