The Mammographic Correlations with Basal-Like Phenotype of Invasive Breast Cancer

Rationale and Objectives

Mammography contributes to the improvement of breast carcinoma survival through early detection and treatment of breast lesions. The basal-like phenotype has been found to be an independent poor prognostic factor for breast cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the mammographic correlates of the basal-like phenotype of invasive breast cancer, and to more precisely predict patient outcome and those individuals who will be responsive to a specific therapeutic regimen.

Materials and Methods

The mammographic findings in 267 patients with operable breast cancer were correlated with the basal-like subtype identified using immunohistochemical assessment of breast cancer cases, including estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, HER-2/neu status, cytokeratin (CK5/6), and epidermal growth factor receptor.

Results

Of the 267 invasive breast cancers, 40 (15%) were of the basal-like phenotype. Basal-phenotype tumors were significantly more likely to manifest as a mass (P = .002), most of which were indistinct margin (P =.035), at mammography, and architecture distortion at mammography (P = .002).

Conclusion

The mammographic appearances of basal-like tumors, more mass and architecture distortion, suggest more rapid carcinogenesis. Additional studies are warranted to further refine prognosis, and to optimize treatment in patients with basal-like breast cancer.

Key Words: Mammography, basal-like phenotype, breast cancer, mass, architectural distortion