Cytologic characteristics of tubulolobular carcinoma of the breast.

TitleCytologic characteristics of tubulolobular carcinoma of the breast.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1996
AuthorsBoppana S, Erroll M, Reiches E, Hoda SA
JournalActa Cytol
Volume40
Issue3
Pagination465-71
Date Published1996 May-Jun
ISSN0001-5547
KeywordsAdenocarcinoma, Aged, Breast Neoplasms, Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast, Carcinoma, Lobular, Diagnosis, Differential, Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Retrospective Studies
Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the cytologic characteristics of tubulolobular carcinoma, a rare tumor of the breast in which the histologic features of both tubular and lobular carcinoma are combined.

STUDY DESIGN: Review of fine needle aspirates and corresponding intraoperatively prepared touch imprints of eight cases of tubulolobular carcinoma.

RESULTS: Low nuclear grade of tumor cells, low mitotic activity, intracytoplasmic vacuoles, single filing of cells and presence of tubular structures were observed in both preparations in most cases. Apocrine cells and a relatively clean background, both of which are generally considered to be cytologic indicators of benign breast conditions, were variably present.

CONCLUSION: Tubulolobular carcinoma should be strongly considered in the differential diagnosis when the cytologic features of both tubular and lobular carcinoma coexist, particularly in cases in which the distinction between tubular and lobular carcinoma may have therapeutic implications.

DOI10.1159/000333900
Alternate JournalActa Cytol
PubMed ID8669180
Related Faculty: 
Syed Hoda, M.D.

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