Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 7, 2026
08:57
Author Spotlight: Genetically Engineered Mouse Models and Pathological Characterization of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Associated Tumors
Published on: May 17, 2024
2.7K
Granulocytic Sarcoma Presenting as a Palpable Breast Lump
Victor Fernandes Vieira1, Quoc Duy Vo1, Jean Bouquet de la Jolinière2
1Department of Radiology, HFR Fribourg - Hôpital Cantonal , Fribourg , Switzerland.
Frontiers in Surgery
|February 8, 2017
Summary
A woman with a history of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) discovered breast masses. Biopsies confirmed granulocytic sarcoma, indicating a relapse of her AML.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hematology
- Pathology
Background:
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematologic malignancy.
- Granulocytic sarcoma, also known as myeloid sarcoma, is an extramedullary tumor of myeloid blasts.
- Breast involvement by granulocytic sarcoma is rare, particularly as an initial presentation or relapse.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old woman presented with a painless breast lump.
- Previous medical history included AML treated and in remission.
- Imaging revealed multiple suspicious breast masses in both breasts.
Findings:
- Ultrasound-guided needle biopsy confirmed granulocytic sarcoma in bilateral breast masses.
- Histopathological analysis indicated a relapse of AML.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering extramedullary relapse of AML in patients with a history of the disease.
- Granulocytic sarcoma of the breast can mimic primary breast cancer, necessitating thorough diagnostic evaluation.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for timely management of AML relapse.
