Perineural invasion (PNI) is a well-recognized histopathologic feature in multiple malignancies; however, its significance in breast cancer remains relatively underexplored. This review provides a synopsis of the current knowledge on PNI in breast cancer, discussing its histopathologic features, molecular mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and clinical relevance. PNI is most frequently observed in high-grade invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), particularly in triple-negative and HER2-positive subtypes. It is also seen in special histological subtypes such as mixed, metaplastic, and invasive micropapillary carcinomas. Mechanistically, PNI involves tumor–neural interactions, including neurotrophic factor signaling and epithelial–mesenchymal transition, contributing to tumor progression and potential locoregional recurrence (LRR). While PNI is linked to adverse prognosis in other tumors, its independent role remains unclear in breast cancer due to limited large-scale studies. Therefore, further investigation into its prognostic significance and potential therapeutic implications is needed. Future research should focus on refining diagnostic criteria and assessing targeted therapies to mitigate PNI-associated progression. This review summarizes the current knowledge on perineural invasion (PNI) in breast cancer, addressing its histological features, molecular mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and clinical implications.
神经周围侵犯（PNI）是多种恶性肿瘤中公认的组织病理学特征，然而其在乳腺癌中的意义仍相对缺乏深入探讨。本综述概述了目前关于乳腺癌中PNI的研究现状，讨论了其组织病理学特征、分子机制、诊断挑战及临床相关性。PNI最常见于高级别浸润性导管癌（IDC），尤其是三阴性和HER2阳性亚型。在特殊组织学亚型如混合型癌、化生性癌和浸润性微乳头状癌中也有发现。从机制上看，PNI涉及肿瘤与神经的相互作用，包括神经营养因子信号传导和上皮-间质转化，这些过程促进肿瘤进展并可能导致局部区域复发（LRR）。尽管PNI在其他肿瘤中与不良预后相关，但由于大规模研究有限，其在乳腺癌中的独立作用尚不明确。因此，需要进一步研究其预后意义及潜在的治疗价值。未来的研究应侧重于完善诊断标准并评估靶向治疗，以减轻PNI相关的疾病进展。本综述总结了当前关于乳腺癌神经周围侵犯（PNI）的研究进展，涵盖其组织学特征、分子机制、诊断难点及临床意义。
Perineural Invasion in Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
肿瘤(癌症)患者之家