Synchronous tumours of the breast and bladder

The presentation of synchronous primary tumours is rare and presents a difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to primary care clinicians and hospital specialists. Increased life expectancy, improved radiological and biochemical investigation and more rigorous pre- and postoperative evaluation will lead to an increasing clinical trend for both metachronous and synchronous primary neoplasms. We report on a case of synchronous bladder and breast cancer in an elderly woman. We detail our investigation and management of the patient, review the literature and suggest the possible causative factors for the association of these synchronous tumours. We also highlight the extent of multiple primary cancers and discuss the diagnostic, treatment and preventative strategies for metachronous and synchronous primary tumours.