Prognostic factors in breast cancer: pathologic features that reflect behavior.
The anatomical presentations and subsequent biological behavior of mammary cancer reflect the heterogeneity of this tumor. Therapeutic decisions, prognostic indicators and outcome analysis became most meaningful when variations in these tumors are identified. The pathological features that best reflect the biological behavior of mammary cancer that have stood the test of time include tumor invasiveness, tumor size, histologic features, axillary node status, and hormone status. Recent data suggest that DNA ploidy and S-phase analysis not only complement tissue hormonal prognostic factors, but also may be of use in predicting the biological behavior of node-negative patients.
Fernandes
J
J
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pennsylvania.
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness; D011379:Prognosis