Malignant Phyllodes tumor in a young female: A Case Report

Phyllodes tumor is a rare fibroepithelial neoplasm of the breast and constitutes 0.3-0.5% of all breast tumors. They are usually benign and only few of them undergo malignant transformation. Benign or borderline phyllodes tumor typically never recur however, malignant phyllodes tumors do have a recurrence and a metastatic potential. Differentiating these two groups is of prime importance for proper management of the patient. We report a rare case of Malignant Phyllodes tumor in an 18 year old female. She presented with a left breast lump which was gradually increasing in size. There was no significant past or family history. Physical examination revealed a 10x10 cm mass which involved the entire left breast. There was no axillary or supraclavicular lymphadenopathy. On fine needle aspiration cytology, a diagnosis suggestive of an atypical cytology (C3) was given and patient was advised to undergo urgent biopsy and on histopathological examination a possibility of malignant phyllodes tumor was rendered. Following this, lumpectomy was performed and a diagnosis of Malignant Phyllodes tumor was confirmed. Within two months of surgery patient had a recurrence of a huge breast lump with overlying skin ulcerations and underwent a left simple mastectomy. Patient is currently under follow up period and free of disease. A definitive preoperative diagnosis is of utmost importance in correct surgical management of the patient and in order to avoid local recurrences.