Non-palpable ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) with microinvasion arising in a radial scar presenting with spiculation alone on mammograms: a case report

Breast Cancer. 2006;13(1):107-11. doi: 10.2325/jbcs.13.107.

Abstract

A case of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) with microinvasion arising in a radial scar of the breast is presented. A 57-year-old woman visited our hospital with bloody discharge from her left nipple. There were no abnormal findings on cytology, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level of nipple discharge was <500 ng/ml, and mammograms were normal. After 2 years of careful periodic follow-up, spiculation without a central core appeared on mammograms. The CEA level of the nipple discharge increased to 1,000 ng/ml. Ductgraphy showed a connection between the duct with the discharge and the center of the spiculation. Since these findings suggested malignancy, she underwent segmentectomy of the breast, and pathological examination showed a radial scar and DCIS with microinvasion in the ducts within the radiating bands of fibrous tissues. We discuss the characteristics of a radial scar and its relationship to breast cancer based on our experience and a review of the literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / diagnostic imaging
  • Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mammography
  • Mastectomy, Segmental
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Neoplasm Staging / methods
  • Nipples / metabolism*
  • Prognosis