[Clinical and pathologic characteristics of primary angiosarcoma of breast].

OBJECTIVE:To study the clinical and pathologic characteristics of primary angiosarcoma of breast. METHODS:Five cases of primary angiosarcoma of breast were reviewed. Immunohistochemical study (SP method) for factor VIII-related antigen, CD31, CD34, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and c-erbB-2 was performed. The clinical data were also analyzed. RESULTS:All of the 5 patients had a history of a painless breast lump. Ultrasound examination and mammogram did not reveal any specific findings. Histologically, various degree of cellular pleomorphism was noted. Immunohistochemical study showed a positive expression of endothelial associated antigens of the tumors cells in all the 5 cases. The staining result for estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and c-erbB-2 was negative. CONCLUSIONS:Primary angiosarcoma of breast is a rare entity. The diagnosis is rather difficult owing to the lack of specific clinical findings and histological heterogeneity. Application of Positive expression of endothelial associated antigens of the tumors cells is helpful in making a pathological diagnosis morphologically.