Breast Pathology Review

Flashcards about breast abnormalities and cancer.

What is the most common breast abnormality seen in premenopausal women?

Fibrocystic changes or fibrocystic disease.

What is acute mastitis?

An inflammatory process in the breast, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus entering through ducts, especially during early breastfeeding.

What is the most common benign neoplasm of the female breast?

Fibroadenoma.

What type of tumor is a fibroadenoma considered?

A biphasic tumor composed of fibroblastic stroma and epithelium-lined glands.

What are some risk factors for carcinoma of the breast?

Age, geographic variations, family history, genetic factors, prolonged exposure to estrogen, early menarche, late menopause, late pregnancy, and ionizing radiation.

What genetic changes are risk factors for carcinoma of the breast?

HER2/NEU proto-oncogene and mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2.

Where is the most common location of tumors found?

Upper outer quadrant (50%).

What is the difference between in situ and invasive carcinomas?

In situ carcinomas remain within the basement membrane, while invasive carcinomas have spread beyond it.

What is Paget disease of the nipple?

Extension of cancer into the skin of the nipple, producing a unilateral crusting exudate.

What is peau d'orange?

Localized lymphedema causing thickened skin around hair follicles, resembling an orange peel.

What is a common symptom of breast cancer?

Solitary, painless mass.