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Metastatic Breast Cancer Presenting as Acute Appendicitis.
David T Khalil1, Kellee Slater2, Caroline Cooper3
1Medicine, Queensland Health, Brisbane, AUS.
Cureus
|November 23, 2022
Summary
Metastatic breast cancer can spread to unusual sites, causing rare complications. This case highlights breast cancer metastasis to the cecum, presenting as appendicitis in a patient with brain metastases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Breast cancer is a leading diagnosis in Australia.
- Increased survival rates lead to novel metastatic presentations.
- Common sites of metastasis include lung, brain, bone, and liver.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old female with known brain metastases from breast cancer presented with acute appendicitis symptoms.
- Surgical exploration revealed a cecal mass obstructing the appendix.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed the cecal mass was metastatic breast cancer.
- This represents an uncommon site of metastasis for breast malignancy.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering unusual metastatic sites in patients with advanced breast cancer.
- Broadens understanding of potential complications and diagnostic challenges in metastatic breast cancer patients.
- Emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluation in patients with a history of cancer presenting with acute abdominal symptoms.
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