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Molecular classification of breast cancer: what the pathologist needs to know

Rakha, Emad A.; Green, Andrew R.

Authors

EMAD RAKHA Emad.Rakha@nottingham.ac.uk
Professor of Breast Cancer Pathology



Abstract

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease featuring distinct histological, molecular and clinical phenotypes. Although traditional classification systems utilising clinicopathological and few molecular markers are well established and validated, they remain insufficient to reflect the diverse biological and clinical heterogeneity of breast cancer. Advancements in high-throughput molecular techniques and bioinformatics have contributed to the improved understanding of breast cancer biology, refinement of molecular taxonomies and the development of novel prognostic and predictive molecular assays. Application of such technologies is already underway, and is expected to change the way we manage breast cancer. Despite the enormous amount of work that has been carried out to develop and refine breast cancer molecular prognostic and predictive assays, molecular testing is still in evolution. Pathologists should be aware of the new technology and be ready for the challenge. In this review, we provide an update on the application of molecular techniques with regard to breast cancer diagnosis, prognosis and outcome prediction. The current contribution of emerging technology to our understanding of breast cancer is also highlighted.

Citation

Rakha, E. A., & Green, A. R. (2017). Molecular classification of breast cancer: what the pathologist needs to know. Pathology, 49(2), 111-119. doi:10.1016/j.pathol.2016.10.012

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Oct 31, 2016
Online Publication Date Dec 28, 2016
Publication Date Feb 28, 2017
Deposit Date Oct 18, 2018
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal Pathology
Print ISSN 0031-3025
Publisher Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 49
Issue 2
Pages 111-119
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pathol.2016.10.012
Keywords Pathology and Forensic Medicine
Public URL https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1173825
Publisher URL https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003130251640365X?via%3Dihub