invasive mammary carcinoma
General pathological term for breast cancers that have invaded beyond the basement membrane into surrounding breast tissue, encompassing various histologic subtypes.
Full Definition
Invasive mammary carcinoma is a broad pathological classification that includes all breast cancers demonstrating invasion through the basement membrane into the surrounding breast stroma. This category encompasses multiple histologic subtypes including invasive ductal carcinoma (the most common), invasive lobular carcinoma, and various special types such as tubular, mucinous, and micropapillary carcinomas. The term is often used in staging systems and treatment protocols when the specific histologic subtype is not the primary consideration, focusing instead on the invasive nature of the tumor.
Usage
Usage note: Use when referring to invasive breast cancer generally; specify subtype (ductal, lobular) when known and relevant.
In Context
- "The final pathology revealed a 2.1 cm invasive mammary carcinoma, no special type, with negative lymph nodes." — Pathology report
- "Staging guidelines for invasive mammary carcinoma recommend assessment of hormone receptor status and HER2 expression." — Clinical protocol