Ectopic breast cancer: case report and review of the literature

Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2013 Aug;37(4):746-9. doi: 10.1007/s00266-013-0125-1. Epub 2013 Apr 26.

Abstract

Ectopic breast tissue comes in two forms: supernumerary and aberrant. Despite morphologic differences, ectopic breast tissue presents characteristics analogous to orthotopic breast tissue in terms of function and, most importantly, pathologic degeneration. Data in the literature concerning its precise incidence, the probability of malignant degeneration, and its standardized management are scarce and controversial. This study selected more than 100 years of literature, and this report discusses a case of ectopic breast cancer treatment, suggesting novel therapeutic advice that could bring considerable clinical advantages, improve cosmetic results, and reduce the psychological impact on patients.

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Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Diseases / surgery
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Breast* / abnormalities
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / surgery
  • Choristoma* / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Nipples / abnormalities
  • Nipples / surgery
  • Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Supplementary concepts

  • Polythelia, Familial