Abstract
Breast tumors infiltrated by matrix metalloprotease 11 (MMP-11)(+) mononuclear inflammatory cells are prone to form metastases; express high levels of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-5, IL-6, IL-17, interferon β (IFNβ) and NFκB; and exhibit an increased CD68(+)/(CD3(+)CD20(+)) cell ratio at their invasive front. These factors, which are implicated in the crosstalk between tumors and their inflammatory microenvironment, may emerge as attractive prognostic factors and therapeutic targets.