Objective: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) (negative for expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PR) and HER2/neu protein) represent a subtype of breast cancer associated with poor prognosis and highly aggresive behaviour. Genetic characterization of stem cell (CD 44, ....) in this type of carcinoma might provide important data concerning origin and evolution. Data of the literature focused specifically on TNBC but, despite the interest shown to stem cells recently, there are no data concerning the genetic characterization of stem cells in the context of cell biology of TNBC as compared with associated DCIS. Method: We investigated, through immunohistochemistry, the expression and distribution of several stem cell/related antigens, exploring the association of TNBC with DCIS and comparing the presence of stem cells in the invasive and in the in situ component. Results: The multiplicity of parameters to be detected for characterising stem cells and of the diagnostic materials that are available would prevent a straightforward approach and a sequential combination will have to be planned. Conclusion: Optimization of detection, identification and characterisation of tumourigenic breast cancer stem cells might permit further identification of targeted treatment.