Sternalis Muscle: An Unexpected Finding during Mastectomy

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• The sternalis muscle, also known as rectus sternalis, is an anatomical variant of the anterior chest wall.
• This muscle is common in lower animals but infrequently observed in humans.
• Its presence can lead to misinterpretation of anterior chest wall masses on mammography, potentially mimicking tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of unilateral sternalis muscle detected during mastectomy for breast carcinoma.
• To review the literature on the sternalis muscle.
• To highlight the clinical significance and diagnostic challenges posed by this anatomical variant.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a unilateral sternalis muscle identified during a mastectomy procedure.
• Literature review focusing on sternalis muscle anatomy, prevalence, and clinical implications.
• Radiographic and pathological correlation.

Main Results:

• A case of unilateral sternalis muscle was identified in a female patient undergoing mastectomy for right breast carcinoma.
• The sternalis muscle can be mistaken for anterior chest wall tumors on routine mammography.
• Knowledge of this anomaly is important for accurate radiological interpretation and surgical planning.

Conclusions:

• The sternalis muscle is a rare anatomical variant with potential diagnostic implications in mammography.
• Accurate identification of the sternalis muscle is essential to avoid misdiagnosis of neoplastic lesions.
• Further understanding of its origin and innervation may clarify its clinical significance.