Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytology of Argyrophilic Carcinoma (Carcinoid Tumor) of the Breast

Abstract

Argyrophilic carcinoma of the breast, previously referred to as carcinoid tumor, is a rare form of ductal carcinoma that can be diagnosed by fine needle aspiration biopsy. This tumor is characterized by widespread cytoplasmic granules with affinity for reduced silver stains or argyrophilia. The tumor tends to occur in older women and behaves in a fashion similar to classic ductal carcinoma. The argyrophilia may reflect stored neurosecretory granules or, less frequently, mucinous or lactational changes. Carcinoid or other neuroendocrine syndromes are not observed.