Tonsillar metastasis from carcinoma of the breast with ultrastructural and steroid receptor analyses

An unusual site of metastasis for mammary carcinoma is presented with an examination of the tumor's histologic and ultrastructural features, as well as its estrogen and progesterone receptor protein content. The importance of careful examination of the tonsillar area is emphasized in this patient in whom the tonsillar metastasis represented the initial indication of breast tumor recurrence. Estrogen and progesterone receptor analyses are utilized both as an aid in identifying the origin of the metastatic tumor focus as well as an aid in selecting therapy.