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Open Access 01-12-2015 | Case report

Breast cancer or metastasis? An unusual case of metastatic malignant pleural mesothelioma to the breast

Authors: Marialuisa Framarino-dei-Malatesta, Paolo Sammartino, Martina Derme, Isabella Iannini, Gabriele Masselli, Irene Pecorella

Published in: World Journal of Surgical Oncology | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Background

Metastases to the breast from extramammary malignancies are very rare, and ruling out the diagnosis of primary breast tumor is important in order to decide on clinical management and predict prognosis.

Case presentation

Clinical examination revealed in a 49-year-old hairdresser a 3-cm hard lump adherent to the underlying layers in the right breast. Trucut biopsy was performed. Histology showed a solid proliferation of medium-sized neoplastic polygonal cells. Immunohistochemical analysis showed tumor cells diffusely positive for cytokeratin 8/18 and calretinin and focally positive for cytokeratin 5/6 and Wilms’ tumor 1, e-cadherin, and human bone marrow endothelial-1. Estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors were negative. The final diagnosis was metastatic epithelioid malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Conclusions

Immunohistochemistry is an important tool for a conclusive diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Owing to the degree of histological and immunohistochemical overlap, a high level of clinical suspicion is essential in order to avoid unnecessary mutilating surgery.

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Title: Breast cancer or metastasis? An unusual case of metastatic malignant pleural mesothelioma to the breast
Authors: Marialuisa Framarino-dei-Malatesta
Paolo Sammartino
Martina Derme
Isabella Iannini
Gabriele Masselli
Irene Pecorella
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: World Journal of Surgical Oncology / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1477-7819
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12957-015-0491-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Breast cancer or metastasis? An unusual case of metastatic malignant pleural mesothelioma to the breast

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

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World Journal of Surgical Oncology reviewer acknowledgement 2014