Metaplastic carcinoma, otherwise known as metaplastic breast cancer (MBC), is a heterogeneous group of cancers that exhibit varied patterns of metaplasia and differentiation along multiple cell lines. This rare and aggressive form of breast cancer is characterized as being composed of a mixed group of neoplasms containing both glandular and non-glandular patterns with epithelial and/or mesenchymal components. It accounts for fewer than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses.[1] It is most closely associated with invasive ductal carcinoma of no special type (IDC), and shares similar treatment approaches.[2] Relative to IDC, MBC generally has higher histological grade and larger tumor size at time of diagnosis, with a lower incidence of axillary lymph node involvement. MBC tumors are typically estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER-2) negative, meaning hormone therapy is generally not an effective treatment option, which correlates to a relatively poor prognosis. MBC was first recognized as a distinct pathological entity in 2000 by the World Health Organization.[1]
- ^ a b Böler DE, Kara H, Sağlıcan Y, Tokat F, Uras C (2016-08-01). "Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast: A case series and review of the literature". Journal of Oncological Sciences. 2 (2–3): 38–42. doi:10.1016/j.jons.2016.08.006.
- ^ "Metaplastic Breast Cancer". Johns Hopkins Medicine. Johns Hopkins University. 2015-04-22. Archived from the original on 2015-02-15. Retrieved 2015-04-22.