Correlation between imaging and prognostic factors: molecular classification of breast cancers

Diagn Interv Imaging. 2014 Feb;95(2):227-33. doi: 10.1016/j.diii.2013.12.013. Epub 2014 Feb 6.

Abstract

The new molecular classification of breast cancers defines cancer sub-groups with a distinct prognosis and response to treatment. Studies on the literature deal with the imaging of each tumour sub-type. The radiologist should be familiar with them in order to adapt the care of an aggressive sub-type. In view of the current knowledge, the following have been significantly more often observed: mammographical spiculated mass with echogenic halo in luminal A sub-type; architectural distortion in luminal B sub-type; an irregular mass with indistinct margin comprising microcalcifications, with an abrupt interface in the sonography, or non-sonographic mass in the HER2 sub-type; a very hypoechogenic, lobulated mass with indistinct or microlobulated margin, with an abrupt interface, sometimes pseudo-benign, in the triple-negative sub-type.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Mammography; Molecular classification; Sonography.

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / classification*
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Prognosis