Metaplastic carcinoma of breast : A study of 3 case series

Abstract

Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) is rare and distinct histological type of breast cancer. It consists of features of both epithelial & mesenchymal type in a single tumor. It is highly aggressive tumor having poor prognosis. We present three cases. In first case, 35 year female presented with a lump in left breast for two months. Microscopy showed well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with 2/10 lymph nodes showing tumor deposits. In second case, 56 year female presented with lump in left breast for six months. Microscopy showed oval cells with prominent nucleolus, spindle cells, osteoclast type giant cells, focal areas of squamous cell carcinoma with 1/ 7 lymph node involvement. In third case, 52 year female presented with lump in right breast for six months. Microscopy showed squamous cell variant of metaplastic carcinoma with no tumour deposits in five lymph nodes retrieved. Metaplastic breast carcinoma has a diverse clinical behaviour, variable histology and poor prognosis. Keywords: Breast, breast cancer, metaplastic carcinoma