Papillary Neoplasms of the Breast: Diagnostic Features and Molecular Insights

Surg Pathol Clin. 2022 Mar;15(1):133-146. doi: 10.1016/j.path.2021.11.009. Epub 2022 Jan 31.

Abstract

Papillary neoplasms of the breast are a heterogeneous group of tumors characterized by fibrovascular cores lined by epithelium, with or without myoepithelial cells. Papillary neoplasms include benign, atypical, and malignant tumors that show varying histopathologic features and clinical outcomes. Appropriate pathologic classification is crucial to guide clinical treatment. Classification of papillary neoplasms is largely based on morphology, with immunohistochemistry playing an ancillary role to establish diagnoses. Recent molecular studies have provided insight into the genomics of these lesions. This review summarizes the histologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular features of papillary neoplasms of the breast that are important for diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords: Adenomyoepithelioma; Breast; PIK3CA; Papillary carcinoma; Papilloma; Solid-papillary.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Papillary* / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Papillary* / pathology
  • Epithelial Cells / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry