For Patients
For Patients with Lobular Breast Cancer
The information and materials provided here were compiled for use by individuals with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), also known as lobular breast cancer, and their loved ones.
The Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance (LBCA) does not attempt to duplicate most current information available on other websites about general breast cancer. What LBCA provides here is specific information, including graphics and downloadable pdfs, about ILC and ILC treatment, and sample questions specific to lobular breast cancer that patients may wish to discuss with their care teams.
LBCA strives to keep this site current as new information and research findings become available.
ILC is a distinct histologic subtype of breast cancer
ILC was not officially understood to be the distinct breast cancer subtype that it is until 2015. It is also not a rare cancer. In fact, ILC is the second most common breast cancer histologic subtype and the sixth most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in the US. Around 44,000 women each year are diagnosed. Unfortunately, it is still not well understood.
One of the most unique features of most ILC tumors is the absence of the protein E-cadherin and the fact that ILC tumors do not usually form a lump. This makes it much harder to detect with screening, advanced imaging, and self-exams. It is important to know the signs of ILC and report breast changes to your health care provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A download is available of Frequently Asked Questions and answers about ILC characteristics and treatment options. This document is for informational and educational purposes only and can be used to enable patients to have informed discussions with their health care providers. LBCA does not provide clinical advice or make referrals. This information is not meant to replace the advice and care patients receive from their health care provider.
Find Support
There are various organizations that provide direct support to individuals with all types of breast cancer. They may also provide other services and information. Support provided by these organizations may include peer counseling, helplines, and support groups. In some cases, callers may be able to ask for and find that the organization has trained peer counselors with lobular breast cancer. Click here to learn more.
ILC Fact Sheet
As noted, ILC is the sixth most diagnosed cancer of women in the US. Recent research has highlighted opportunities to better understand this disease and improve the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care for thousands of patients with ILC. Download the fact sheet here.
Flyer
A downloadable flyer is available explaining what ILC is and why more reseearch is needed.
ILC vs. IDC Graphic
An infographic discussing the differences between ILC tumor cells and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) tumor cells is available to view or download.
ILC Publications Library
LBCA hosts a library of the most important and current published ILC research, and updates it regularly.
Clinical Trials
Patients who are in cancer treatment, have undergone treatment, or are living with lobular breast cancer can help advance the understanding of ILC by participating in clinical trials and research studies. Learn more here.
Information About Metastatic ILC
LBCA also hosts a page specific to metastatic lobular breast cancer for individuals diagnosed with metastatic ILC and others with ILC that seek to learn more.
Videos
We have an array of educational videos and podcasts, a collection of taped interviews with individuals or panels of clinicians or researchers on ILC- focused topics from past conferences, and videos on ILC Topics being discussed by our Scientific Advisory Board members and other ILC expert researchers available for viewing. You can review these trusted resources whenever is most convenient for you.
