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Primary breast aspergillosis mimicking breast malignancy - a rare case report
Jan Faryna1, Izabela Łuczyszyn1, Andrzej Kleszczewski2
1Department of Pathology, Bielanski Hospital, Warsaw, Poland.
Abstract:
Aspergillus is a group of saprophytic fungi which is widely present in our environment. It can be a cause of opportunistic infections of different organs, especially the lungs. Fungal mastitis is a rare infection in healthy subjects. It is seen in breastfeeding females and immunodeficient patients. We herein report a rare presentation of aspergilloma in a 73-year-old female who presented with a palpable mass in the breast. She was under medical control due to plasmocytoma. In ultrasound examination the lesion was classified as BI-RADS 4b and subsequently biopsy (fine needle and core needle aspiration) was performed. Biopsy provided immediate results and excluded breast cancer. In this rare case report of breast aspergillosis, we emphasize the role of pathology in medical diagnosis.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of breast aspergillosis, a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus, in a 73-year-old woman. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting its crucial role in identifying rare opportunistic infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Aspergillus fungi are common environmental saprophytes.
- They can cause opportunistic infections, particularly in the lungs.
- Fungal mastitis is a rare condition, typically affecting breastfeeding or immunocompromised individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of breast aspergillosis presenting as a palpable breast mass.
- To emphasize the diagnostic utility of pathology in identifying unusual fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 73-year-old female with a palpable breast mass.
- Ultrasound examination classified the lesion as BI-RADS 4b.
- Fine needle and core needle aspiration biopsy performed for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Biopsy results excluded breast cancer.
- The diagnosis of breast aspergillosis was confirmed through pathological examination.
- This case highlights a rare manifestation of an opportunistic fungal infection.
Conclusions:
- Breast aspergillosis is an exceptionally rare condition.
- Pathological examination is essential for the accurate diagnosis of rare breast pathologies.
- This case underscores the importance of considering opportunistic infections in the differential diagnosis of breast masses.
