Metaplastic breast cancer
Metaplastic Breast Cancer Metaplastic breast cancer (MBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer characterized by the presence of two or more cellular types, often including a combination of epithelial and mesenchymal components. This type of cancer is distinct from more common forms of breast cancer, such as ductal or lobular carcinoma, due to its unique histological features and clinical behavior.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with metaplastic breast cancer often present with a palpable mass in the breast. The tumor is typically larger at diagnosis compared to other types of breast cancer. Symptoms may include:
- A lump or mass in the breast
- Changes in breast shape or size
- Skin changes over the breast, such as dimpling or redness
- Nipple discharge or inversion
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of metaplastic breast cancer involves a combination of imaging studies and histopathological examination. Common diagnostic procedures include:
- Mammography
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Core needle biopsy for histological analysis
Histologically, MBC is characterized by the presence of both epithelial and mesenchymal components, which may include squamous, spindle, or chondroid differentiation.
Histological Subtypes[edit | edit source]
Metaplastic breast cancer can be further classified into several histological subtypes, including:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Spindle cell carcinoma
- Carcinosarcoma
- Matrix-producing carcinoma
- Mixed metaplastic carcinoma
Each subtype may exhibit different clinical behaviors and responses to treatment.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment of metaplastic breast cancer typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Due to its rarity and heterogeneity, there is no standardized treatment protocol, but common approaches include:
- Surgery: Often involves a lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
- Radiation Therapy: Used postoperatively to reduce the risk of local recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy may be used, although MBC is often less responsive to standard chemotherapy regimens compared to other breast cancers.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for patients with metaplastic breast cancer is generally poorer than for those with more common types of breast cancer. Factors influencing prognosis include:
- Tumor size and stage at diagnosis
- Histological subtype
- Lymph node involvement
Research and Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the molecular and genetic basis of metaplastic breast cancer, with the aim of developing targeted therapies. Clinical trials are exploring the efficacy of novel agents and treatment combinations.
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- [National Cancer Institute - Metaplastic Breast Cancer](https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/metaplastic-breast-cancer)
- [Breast Cancer Research Foundation](https://www.bcrf.org/)
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Metaplastic breast cancer is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
