carcinoma in situ

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carcinoma in situ (CIS) n. the earliest stage of cancer spread, in which the tumour is confined to the epithelium and surgical removal of the growth should lead to cure. ductal c. i. s. (DCIS) the earliest stage of breast cancer, which is confined to the lactiferous (milk) ducts. See also cervical (cancer), CIN (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia).