The neural crest transcription factor SOX 10 is preferentially expressed in triple negative breast carcinomas.

Abstract

Introduction: The expression of SOX 10 by immunohistochemistry has been documented in benign breast myoepithelial cells and in ductal carcinomas classified by the molecular subtype defined by immunohistochemistry. Material and methods: Material and methods: 77 cases of infiltrating ductal carcinomas of the mammary gland with Sox 10 reactivity were analyzed and subdivided by immunohistochemistry into the different molecular subtypes. The IHC panel used to define molecular subtypes included Estrogen Receptors (ER), Progesterone Receptors (PR), Her 2, cytokeratin(CK) 5/6, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). Results: In our study we demonstrated in 31 cases (44.25%) of 77 infiltrating ductal carcinomas SOX 10 immunoreactivity, which was only observed in basal and undifferentiated subtype triple negative carcinomas. Conclusion: The expression of Sox 10 in triple negative infiltrating ductal carcinomas supports the concept that these neoplasms show myoepithelial differentiation.