Invasive cribriform carcinoma of the breast

A type of breast cancer characterized by cribriform patterns

Invasive cribriform carcinoma of the breast is a rare subtype of invasive breast cancer that is characterized by distinct histological features. It is considered a low-grade malignancy with a favorable prognosis compared to other forms of breast cancer.

Histopathology

Invasive cribriform carcinoma is defined by its unique histological appearance. The tumor cells form cribriform patterns, which resemble Swiss cheese, with small, round spaces within the tumor tissue. These spaces are surrounded by nests of uniform, small, and bland epithelial cells. The cribriform architecture is a key diagnostic feature that distinguishes this carcinoma from other types of breast cancer.

Cribriform carcinoma histology

The tumor often exhibits low mitotic activity and minimal nuclear atypia, contributing to its classification as a low-grade carcinoma. The presence of cribriform patterns in more than 90% of the tumor is required for a diagnosis of pure invasive cribriform carcinoma.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with invasive cribriform carcinoma typically present with a palpable breast mass. The tumor is often detected during routine mammography or breast ultrasound due to its slow-growing nature. It is more commonly diagnosed in postmenopausal women.

Prognosis and Treatment

Invasive cribriform carcinoma generally has an excellent prognosis. The five-year survival rate is high, and the risk of metastasis is lower compared to other invasive breast cancers. Treatment typically involves surgical excision, which may include lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the size and location of the tumor.

Adjuvant therapies, such as radiation therapy and hormonal therapy, may be recommended based on the tumor's hormone receptor status. Chemotherapy is less commonly required due to the tumor's low-grade nature.

Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for invasive cribriform carcinoma includes other types of breast cancer with similar histological features, such as tubular carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) with cribriform patterns. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and is typically achieved through a combination of histological examination and immunohistochemistry.

Tubular carcinoma histology

Related Pages

• Breast cancer
• Histopathology
• Mammography
• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy