Advances in the diagnosis of breast cancer: A mini review

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadly diseases affecting women, with no definitive cure currently available. Early detection is critical to improving survival o u t c o m e s . T h i s p a p e r r e v i e w e d k e y advancements in the histopathological diagnosis of breast cancer, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), molecular methods, and the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI). IHC is used to detect hormone receptors such as estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), with multiple scoring systems available. HER2/neu expression, assessed via IHC and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), guides treatment with trastuzumab and indicates tamoxifen resistance. The Ki-67 proliferation index is used to measure tamoxifen's effect on tumor proliferation. Advanced multiplex IHC/immunofluorescence techniques allow simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers. Liquid biopsies offer a less invasive means of detecting molecular markers. AI, aided by digital histopathology slide scanning, shows promise in enhancing accuracy and speed in tissue analysis and risk prediction.