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Xanthogranulomatous Breast Mass: An Unusual Presentation
Ibtesam G Zahid1, Suryanaren Kummarapurugu1, Sameer Alrefai2
1General Surgery, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, USA.
Cureus
|October 18, 2021
Summary
This case report details an exceptionally rare xanthogranulomatous tumor in a 92-year-old woman's breast. The findings highlight the need for further research into this unusual breast cancer presentation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Xanthogranulomatous reactions are benign inflammatory processes typically found in the kidney and gallbladder.
- These reactions are characterized by the aggregation of lipid-laden foamy macrophages.
Observation:
- A 92-year-old female presented with a palpable, tender mass in her right breast.
- Initial ultrasound-guided biopsy suggested a high-grade malignant neoplasm of uncertain origin.
- Pathological examination revealed malignant epithelioid cells with a xanthogranulomatous reaction and Touton-like histiocytes.
Findings:
- The breast mass exhibited morphological similarities to a xanthogranulomatous epithelial tumor.
- The patient had no prior history of breast carcinoma, and immunohistochemical studies did not suggest breast origin.
- Treatment involved lumpectomy consistent with care for an unusual high-grade sarcoma, followed by a PET scan.
Implications:
- This case represents an exceptionally rare instance of a xanthogranulomatous tumor in breast tissue, particularly in an elderly patient.
- The rarity of xanthogranulomatous tumors in the breast means that prognosis and standardized treatment protocols are yet to be established.
- Further investigation is warranted to understand the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of these rare breast tumors.
