Infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast: extensive intraductal component has no impact on lymph node involvement and survival.

The extensible intraductal component (EIC) in infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC) was reported to be a predictor of local recurrence. We investigated the influence of this histopathological parameter on nodal status and overall survival. In 115 patients suffering from an IDC with tumor stage FIGO I and II, 35 were EIC positive. We did not find a correlation with the nodal status. The mean follow up was 73 (±38) months. EIC showed no influence on overall survival. Based on our findings, the presence of EIC is not a criterion for therapeutic decisions in IDC.