Cytologic characteristics of tubulolobular carcinoma of the breast.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the cytologic characteristics of tubulolobular carcinoma, a rare tumor of the breast in which the histologic features of both tubular and lobular carcinoma are combined.

STUDY DESIGN

Review of fine needle aspirates and corresponding intraoperatively prepared touch imprints of eight cases of tubulolobular carcinoma.

RESULTS

Low nuclear grade of tumor cells, low mitotic activity, intracytoplasmic vacuoles, single filing of cells and presence of tubular structures were observed in both preparations in most cases. Apocrine cells and a relatively clean background, both of which are generally considered to be cytologic indicators of benign breast conditions, were variably present.

CONCLUSION

Tubulolobular carcinoma should be strongly considered in the differential diagnosis when the cytologic features of both tubular and lobular carcinoma coexist, particularly in cases in which the distinction between tubular and lobular carcinoma may have therapeutic implications.