Tubular breast cancer seen in the Oncology Centre in Kraków. Clinical characteristics and results of therapy of patients treated between 1955 and 2002

Abstract

Introduction. Tubular breast cancer accounts for approximately 1% to 2% of all invasive breast cancer types. It is composed of well-diff erentiated tubular structures which are lined by a single layer of epithelial cells. The purpose of this study is to present the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of 67 patients treated for tubular breast cancer at the Oncology Centre in Kraków between 1955 and 2002.

Material and methods. Stage I or II cancer was found in 62 patients (92.5%) of the total group. In 43 cases (64.2%)the size of the breast tumor was 2 cm or less. In 52 patients (77.6%) no axillary lymph node metastasis was observed.

Surgery was used as primary method of therapy in all patients. Mastectomy was performed in 60 patients and 7 patients underwent breast conserving surgery. Post-operative radiotherapy was received by 13 patients. Systemic treatment such as chemotherapy and hormonal therapy were also performed.

Results. The maximum follow-up period was 320 months. 10-year survivals were as follows: 83.8% (overall survival) and 91.6% (disease-free survival).

During the follow-up 2 patients (3%) developed local recurrence and in 5 patients (7.5%) distant metastases were observed. A second primary cancer was found in 8 patients (11.9%).

Conclusions. Outcomes confi rm good prognosis in patients treated with tubular breast cancer. There is possibility of early diagnosis and this will enable the provision of breast conserving treatment. This is a very important factor infl uencing quality of life in patients with breast cancer.