Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast with paraneoplastic thrombocytosis; a rare case report

Introduction: primary neuroendocrine cancer of the breast (NECB) is a very rare entity, comprising less than 0,1% of all breast tumors. It was first reported in 1977 by cubilla et al.

Case presentation: we report the case of a 60-year-old rural Syrian female who admitted to our hospital due to a painless lump in her right breast. Radiological & clinical findings were highly indicative of breast carcinoma. Therefore, a partial biopsy was performed and microscopic examination suggested the diagnosis of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast, which was confirmed by immunohistochemical staining. Lab findings were also indicative for anemia & thrombocytosis.

Clinical discussion: neuroendocrine tumors are usually seen in the intestine & lungs. However, their presence as primary tumors in the breast is extremely rare.

Conclusion: our article demonstrates a challenging case of primary neuroendocrine breast carcinoma with paraneoplastic thrombocytosis, which clarifies the major diagnostic & therapeutic approaches used in its management.