Tubular carcinoma

A type of breast cancer characterized by tube-shaped structures

Tubular carcinoma is a subtype of breast cancer that is characterized by the presence of tube-shaped structures in the breast tissue. It is considered a type of invasive ductal carcinoma, which means it originates in the milk ducts and invades surrounding tissues. Tubular carcinoma is generally associated with a favorable prognosis compared to other forms of breast cancer.

Histopathology

Histopathology of tubular carcinoma, low magnification

Tubular carcinoma is defined by its distinct histological appearance. Under the microscope, the cancer cells form small, tube-like structures. These structures are typically well-differentiated, meaning they closely resemble normal breast tissue. The presence of these tubular structures is a key diagnostic feature.

At low magnification, the tumor appears as small, angulated tubules lined by a single layer of epithelial cells. The stroma, or connective tissue, surrounding these tubules is often desmoplastic, meaning it is dense and fibrous.

Histopathology of tubular carcinoma, high magnification

At higher magnification, the individual cells lining the tubules can be seen more clearly. These cells typically have small, uniform nuclei and low mitotic activity, which contributes to the generally favorable prognosis of tubular carcinoma.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with tubular carcinoma often present with a small, palpable mass in the breast. The tumor is usually detected during routine mammography screenings, as it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Tubular carcinoma is more common in postmenopausal women.

Prognosis and Treatment

Tubular carcinoma is associated with an excellent prognosis. The five-year survival rate is high, and the risk of metastasis is lower compared to other types of invasive breast cancer. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor, which may be followed by radiation therapy or hormonal therapy, depending on the individual case.

Related Pages

• Breast cancer
• Invasive ductal carcinoma
• Histopathology
• Mammography