Apocrine carcinoma of the breast

Definition

A primary carcinoma of the breast showing apocrine differentiation.

Epidemiology

Pure apocrine carcinoma of the breast is rare, accounting for 1% to 4% of all breast carcinomas. Apocrine foci may be found in other types of breast carcinoma

Macroscopic appearances

There are no gross features to distinguish from other breast carcinomas.

Histopathology

The tumour cells have abundant granular eosinophilic cytoplasm. Nucleoli are prominent.

Immunohistochemistry

	Androgen receptors	strongly positive1
	oestrogen receptors	negative1
	progesterone receptors	negative1
	GCDFP-15	usually positive1

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.