[In situ ductal carcinoma of the breast: a diagnostic challenge]

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) represents a heterogenous group of lesions nowadays most commonly detected by mammography. The biological behaviour of ductal carcinoma in situ ranges from clinically occult, indolent, essentially benign lesions to precursors of invasive carcinoma. This work gives a review on the natural history of this disorder, and focuses on its imaging features. Stress is laid on the pivotal role of mammography in the management of ductal carcinoma in situ. The recent literature is reviewed.