An Unusual Cause of a Breast Mass in a Patient from China

Sparganosis is a parasitic infection caused by Spirometra spp. and often presents as a subcutaneous swelling, most commonly noticed in the abdominal wall or extremities. Amphibians such as frogs ingest infected copepods (crustaceans that have ingested coracidia, i.e., Spirometra spp. embryos) and serve as a secondary intermediate host. Complete surgical excision is recommended for definitive diagnosis and treatment. Granulomatous inflammation is the most common histologic finding. Although dissemination can occur, most cases are localized. Serum enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been suggested as a potential surveillance tool. Medical therapy with antiparasitic agents, such as praziquantel, is not typically recommended but may be effective at high doses. Preventing recurrence thus depends on adequate surgical removal of the parasite. We report a case of a breast mass caused by sparganosis infection in a Chinese female whose likely exposure was due to frog consumption. The diagnosis was confirmed on surgical excision and no systemic antiparasitic therapy was required.