Phyllodes Tumours Will Only Get Bigger During Pandemic Restrictions

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Phyllodes tumours are rare fibroepithelial stromal neoplasms of the breast.
• They are morphologically distinct from epithelial breast cancers.
• Diagnosis and management have historically been challenging.

Observation:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) classification in 2003 divided phyllodes tumours into subtypes.
• This revised classification revealed differing incidence, management, and follow-up requirements for each subtype.
• A case of a 47-year-old female with a large phyllodes tumour, presenting late due to pandemic restrictions, is discussed.

Findings:

• Subtype classification is crucial for tailoring treatment strategies.
• Optimal outcomes depend on distinct management and follow-up protocols for each phyllodes tumour subtype.
• The presented case required mastectomy and adjuvant treatment.

Implications:

• Accurate subtyping of phyllodes tumours is essential for effective clinical management.
• Adherence to subtype-specific protocols can optimize patient outcomes.
• Further research into the distinct biological behaviors and treatment responses of phyllodes tumour subtypes is warranted.