Breast cancer classification involves examining the microscopic structure of tumor cells. The most common classification is based on the origin of the cancer cells:
Ductal Carcinoma: Originates in the milk ducts. The most frequent subtype, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), can spread to other parts of the body. Lobular Carcinoma: Arises from the lobules, which are the milk-producing glands. Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is less common but can also metastasize.
Other less common histological types include mucinous carcinoma, tubular carcinoma, and medullary carcinoma, each with distinct histological features.