The
DNA nuclear content of 83 'pure' intraductal
cancers (
DCIS), 30
DCIS with an invasive component, 7
intraductal papillomas, 26 atypical
hyperplasias, and 5 'hobnail' lesions was determined with a Cell Analysis Systems Image Analyzer (CAS 200). No consistent quantitative alteration of
DNA or nuclear grade assessed by routine microscopy was observed for any ductal change diagnostic of
DCIS. Fifty-eight percent of all
DCIS were considered to be
aneuploid, whereas all
papillomas and atypical
hyperplasias were diploid with normoproliferative S-phase and good nuclear grade. Use of ploidy, S phase, or nuclear grade for the distinction of
DCIS and
papillomas and atypical
hyperplasia is limited, since their estimates would be comparable in 42%, 46%, and 40% of instances respectively. Poor nuclear grade was significantly more frequent in solid than cribriform types of
DCIS. There were no significant differences in any parameters in
DCIS with and without comedo
necrosis. This represents further evidence against recognition of a unique comedo form of
DCIS.
DNA histograms of nuclei comprising the 'hobnail' lesions were
aneuploid. Despite this their
biologic nature is uncertain. No consistent differences in
DNA content were noted between
DCIS with and without an invasive component. This obfuscates insight into the role of
DCIS in the development of invasive
cancer of the breast.