Recent advances in breast cancer research impacting clinical diagnostic practice

During the last decade, the genomics revolution has driven critical advances in molecular oncology and pathology, and a deeper appreciation of heterogeneity that is beginning to reshape our thinking around diagnostic classification. Recent developments have seen existing classification systems modified and improved where possible, gene‐based diagnostics implemented and tumour–immune interactions modulated. We present a detailed discussion of this progress, including advances in the understanding of breast tumour classification, e.g. mixed ductal–lobular tumours and the spectrum of triple‐negative breast cancer. The latest information on clinical trials and the implementation of gene‐based diagnostics, including MammaPrint and Oncotype Dx and others, is synthesised, and emerging targeted therapies, as well as the burgeoning immuno‐oncology field, and their relevance in breast cancer, are discussed. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.