Salivary gland-like tumours of the breast

Definition

Primary breast tumours resembling those of the salivary glands.

Histopathology and immunohistochemistry

• Adenoid cystic carcinoma is identical to adenoid cystic carcinoma of salivary glands. It may show cribriform, trabecular-tubular or solid architecture. The basaloid cells are positive for CK14, vimentin, SMA and laminin. CK7 is usually focally positive.

• Acinic cell carcinoma shows the same morphology as in the salivary glands. The tumour cells are positive for salivary type amylase, lysozyme, EMA, S-100 and alpha-1-antitrypsin.

This group of tumours are usually negative for oestrogen receptors.

References

1 Putti TC, Pinder SE, Elston CW, et al. Breast pathology practice: most common problems in a consultation service. Histopathology 2005; 47:445-57

This page last revised 6.12.2005.

©SMUHT/PW Bishop