Correlation between the histological grading and size of breast cancer with the axillary lymph node involvement, a continuous retrospective and prospective study

This is a continuous retrospective and prospective study which was planned and performed in Saddam Teaching Hospital in Najaf city for the period from the first of January 2001 to the thirtieth of August 2002 to study the correlation between the histological grading of breast cancer cells with the ipsilateral A.L.N involvement in relation to the size of the cancer to have an idea about the pattern and aggressiveness of the breast cancer in this city, with a note to the age and sex of the patient and the residence whether rural or urban. Breast cancer cases represent 34% of breast surgery in this hospital during the period of study. The commonest age groups was the 5th decade 36.9% followed by the 4th decade, 23% Urban cases more than rural area cases. (I.D.C) 81.5% and (l.LC) 18.5%. The histological grading grade ll came first 70.8% grade IlI, 20% and grade L.9.2%. ALN involvement 100% in grade Ill. 65.2% in grade l and 33.3% in grade I. Breast cancer size 2-5cm represents 63% of the cases, tumour size more than 5cm represent 30% and those with size less than 2cm 6.3%.