Distribution of mast cells in the axillary lymph nodes of breast cancer patients.

In a study of the pattern of distribution of mast cells in the axillary lymph nodes of 43 consecutive breast cancer patients it was observed that: 1) the pattern of distribution of mast cells in the survivors and nonsurvivors is similar, 2) there is almost complete absence of mast cells in the germinal centers with predominance of them in the T cell areas, and 3) a significant number of mast cells are seen in the afferent lymphatic route and the highest percentages of mast cells found in the medullary sinuses. The significance of these findings as they pertain to the relation of mast cells to the T cell system and to the migratory nature of mast cells is discussed.