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Molecular Apocrine Breast Cancer

Meaning

Molecular Apocrine Breast Cancer is a distinct subtype of breast malignancy characterized by a specific gene expression profile that mimics the apocrine secretory cells, often presenting as estrogen receptor-negative (ER-), progesterone receptor-negative (PR-), but androgen receptor-positive (AR+) disease. This classification, which is distinct from the traditional immunohistochemical definitions, identifies a tumor that may be hormonally driven by androgens rather than estrogens. Clinical recognition of this molecular signature is paramount for selecting targeted endocrine therapy, particularly in the triple-negative breast cancer subset.