Factors influencing axillary lymph node status in carcinoma breast

Objective: The study aimed at observing the factors which might influence the axillary lymph node metastases. Design: The study was an observational one. Place and duration of study: The study was carried out at the surgical unit of Khyber teaching Hospital, Peshawar over one year. Subjects and methods: Fifty cases of carcinoma breast undergoing mastectomy and axillary dissection were studied. A total of one hundred and sixty-six lymph nodes were sampled during auxiliary dissection. Axillary lymph node metastases were correlated with age, duration of symptoms, tumor site, size, type, grade, necrosis, margins, stromal reaction, lymphatic permeation skin and nipple involvement. Results: The presence of certain factors was observed in the majority of patients with axillary metastases. Conclusion: It was concluded that axillary lymph node metastases might be influenced by the above factors. (author)