Similarities and variations among lobular carcinoma cells

A cytomorphological description of lobular carcinoma of the breast is given based on imprints, paraffin-embedded 5-mu sections, and plastic-embedded 2-mu sections in nine patients. Both nuclear and cytoplasmic features are illustrated and tabulated. A basic lobular carcinoma cell is depicted. Cytoplasmic vacuolization is demonstrated in all tumors. Transitions from one lobular cell variation to another are demonstrated. It is suggested that more precise knowledge of the similarities and the variations in the morphology of the lobular carcinoma cell will help in both cytological and histological diagnosis.