Epidermal cyst of the breast

Area of Science:

• Breast imaging and pathology
• Dermatology
• Surgical oncology

Background:

• Epidermal cysts are rare benign skin adnexal tumors.
• Breast involvement by epidermal cysts is exceptionally uncommon.
• Accurate preoperative diagnosis is challenging.

Observation:

• Two cases of histopathologically confirmed epidermal cysts of the breast were identified.
• Mammography and ultrasonography revealed solid-appearing breast masses.
• The imaging characteristics were nonspecific and mimicked malignant or common benign breast lesions.

Findings:

• Initial clinical and radiological assessments suggested fibroadenoma or breast carcinoma.
• Histopathological examination ultimately confirmed the diagnosis of epidermal cyst in both cases.
• The rarity of these lesions contributes to diagnostic difficulties.

Implications:

• This case series highlights the importance of considering rare differential diagnoses in breast imaging.
• Pathologists and radiologists must be aware of the imaging features, although often nonspecific, of epidermal cysts.
• Definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological analysis, underscoring the need for surgical excision and biopsy.