Microfilariasis of the breast mimicking malignancy

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Breast lumps are common, with malignancy being a primary concern.
• Axillary lymphadenopathy can indicate metastatic breast cancer.
• Parasitic infections of the breast are uncommon but can mimic neoplastic processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of breast lump and axillary lymphadenopathy caused by Wuchereria bancrofti.
• To highlight the importance of considering parasitic etiologies in breast diagnostics.
• To differentiate parasitic breast masses from malignant tumors.

Main Methods:

• Clinical presentation of a 65-year-old female with a right breast lump and axillary lymphadenopathy.
• Mammographic evaluation revealing a well-defined retro-areolar mass.
• Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of the breast lump.

Main Results:

• Mammography showed a well-defined central breast mass.
• FNAC confirmed the presence of numerous microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti.
• The clinical presentation mimicked breast cancer but was attributed to parasitic infestation.

Conclusions:

• Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae can present as a breast lump and axillary lymphadenopathy, mimicking breast cancer.
• Diagnostic imaging and cytology are crucial for identifying parasitic causes of breast masses.
• Parasitic infections should be considered in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions, especially in endemic areas.