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Microfilaria in breast aspiration--an uncommon finding
Rajib Kumar Mondal1, Rudranarayan Ray, Hena Kawsar
1Department of Pathology, Vill-Barjora, Schooldanga, BSMC, Bankura, West Bengal, India. rajibkmondal@yahoo.co.in
Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology
|November 23, 2013
Summary
Filariasis, a parasitic disease, commonly affects lymphatics but can present unusually in the breast. This case highlights a rare instance of breast filariasis mimicking fibroadenoma.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Parasitology
- Oncology
Background:
- Filariasis is a significant global health issue, endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, impacting over 83 countries.
- In India, Wuchereria bancrofti is the primary cause of filariasis, typically targeting lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels.
- Breast involvement is an uncommon manifestation of filariasis.
Observation:
- A patient presented with a progressively enlarging breast mass.
- The clinical presentation suggested a fibroadenoma, a common benign breast tumor.
- Diagnostic imaging and subsequent pathological examination were required for definitive diagnosis.
Findings:
- The breast lump was confirmed to be caused by filarial infection.
- This represents a rare case of filariasis localized to the breast tissue.
- The parasitic etiology was identified despite initial clinical suspicion of a neoplastic condition.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of breast lumps, even in non-endemic areas or unusual locations.
- Awareness among clinicians is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of filariasis.
- Further research into the mechanisms of aberrant parasite localization may be warranted.
