Primary breast lymphoma in pregnancy: A case report

Primary breast lymphoma (PBL) is a rare extra nodal site of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and constitutes 0.4-0.5 % of all breast neoplasms. It mostly affects women. Breast lymphoma is divided into two types: primary and secondary. Primary Breast Lymphoma is when cancerous cells form in both the mammary tissue and the lymphatic system, without any other signs of cancer elsewhere in the body. PBL is usually a non-Hodgkin's B-cell type, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) being the most common type.

Here by described is a case report of 24 years primigravida in third trimester who presented with the complaint of a painful swelling in the left breast, mimicking breast abscess. At the time of presentation, patient denied Incision and Drainage due to consequent risks involved in premature delivery of the baby. Post-delivery patient underwent wound debridement on emergency basis. Biopsies revealed primary breast lymphoma (B-cell). She was referred for chemotherapy. Following which she succumbed after 2 cycles of chemotherapy.

Primary breast lymphoma is considered to be a disease with the potential of systemic diffusion. It typically presents as a painless breast mass in 85 % of cases, but may be mistaken for mastitis during pregnancy. Non-responsive mastitis in pregnant or lactating women should be investigated as it may be a symptom of breast lymphoma. Early detection is crucial due to the aggressive nature of the lesion and prognosis.

Rapidly progressive, Clinical, and Imaging difficulties for diagnosis, Delay in response to treatment makes us to consider Primary Breast Lymphoma in all patients with breast lump.