A rare form of invasive ductal carcinoma that is characterized by mucin-producing cancer cells.
Breast ducts
Carcinoma
Origin: Ductal cells
Grade: 1-2
Severity: Low
Molecular Marker: ER, PR
Age Range: 55-75 years
Life Expectancy: 10+ years
Mucinous carcinoma, also known as colloid carcinoma, is a rare form of invasive ductal carcinoma, a type of cancer that begins in the milk ducts of the breast. This type of cancer is characterized by the production of mucin—a key component of mucus—by the cancer cells. Mucinous carcinoma accounts for 1-7% of all breast carcinoma cases and tends to have a better prognosis compared to other types of invasive breast cancer.
The symptoms of mucinous carcinoma are similar to those of other types of breast cancer and can include:
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with benign breast conditions. Therefore, any persistent breast changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
The treatment for mucinous carcinoma is similar to that of other types of breast cancer and may include a combination of the following:
Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells in the breast area.
Since mucinous carcinoma is often hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy may be used to block cancer cells from receiving the hormones they need to grow. Common medications include tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors.
While mucinous carcinoma tends to respond well to hormone therapy, chemotherapy may be recommended in certain cases, especially if the cancer is more aggressive or has spread.
For cancers that are HER2-positive, targeted therapies such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) may be employed.
Research in breast cancer treatment is ongoing, and several experimental approaches are being explored. These include:
This treatment leverages the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. While still largely experimental for breast cancer, some clinical trials are investigating its effectiveness in combination with other treatments.
Advancements in genomic testing are enabling more personalized treatment plans based on the specific genetic makeup of a patient's tumor.
These are a newer class of drugs being tested in clinical trials for their effectiveness in treating certain breast cancers, particularly those with BRCA mutations.
Most of the standard treatments for mucinous carcinoma, such as surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, have been in use for several decades and continue to be refined. Chemotherapy regimens have evolved since the 1970s and 1980s, with newer drugs and combinations being developed. Targeted therapies, like trastuzumab, were introduced in the late 1990s and have significantly changed the treatment landscape for HER2-positive breast cancers.
Experimental treatments like immunotherapy and personalized medicine are part of a more recent wave of innovation, with ongoing research and clinical trials over the past decade. The use of PARP inhibitors is also a relatively new development from the last few years.
As research continues, the potential for more targeted and effective treatments for mucinous carcinoma is promising, offering hope for improved outcomes and reduced side effects for patients.