••• Chapter 41^ Breast Disorders^415
❍ Is there an association with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in male breast cancer?
There is an association with BRCA2 in some familial breast cancers in males but not BRCA1.
❍ What is the characteristic histologic feature of mucinous (colloid) carcinoma?
It is characterized by pools of mucin within which groups of tumor cells “float.”
❍ What does the term “metaplastic carcinoma” describe in breast cancer?
These are tumors with “sarcomatoid” features or a mixture of malignant epithelial and mesenchymal elements.
❍ What is the most common pure sarcoma to occur in the breast?
Angiosarcoma.
❍ What is the mean age of development of angiosarcoma of the breast?
Approximately 40 years.
❍ What factors are associated with the development of angiosarcoma?
Lymphatic obstruction and radiation.
Figure 41.5 A 85-year-old patient with a 15-year prior right-sided mastectomy and chest wall radiotherapy for locally advanced
carcinoma now exhibits a raised, nodular, purplish mass that is angiosarcoma.
❍ What is the prognosis of angiosarcoma of the breast?
There is a 5 yr survival rate of 8% to 50%.
❍ Where does recurrence of angiosarcoma of the breast occur?
Recurrence usually is local, although hematogenous dissemination may occur. Dissemination usually involves the
lungs, skin, contralateral breastbone, liver, brain, and ovary, in decreasing frequency.