Histopathological spectrum of breast lesions with reference to uncommon cases

Objectives: A retrospective study of last three years was undertaken to determine the histopathological spectrum of breast lesions with detailed study of interesting and uncommon cases, the features of which are helpful in management of the patients. Methods: Clinical features and histopathological findings were studied in 176 cases with emphasis on uncommon cases. Results: Out of the 176 cases, benign lesions constituted 80.70% and malignant 19.30%. The commonest benign tumor was fibroadenoma and the commonest malignant tumor was infiltrating duct carcinoma. Uncommon cases in benign group were duct ectasia with granulomatous mastitis, papilloma and galactocele. Metastasis of mixed mucinous carcinoma of the breast to axillary lymph node was an interesting case in the malignant group. Conclusion: Identification of benign lesions like duct ectasia with granulomatous mastitis is important as it simulates malignancy. It is important to make distinction between benign and malignant papillary tumors because approach to the diagnosis and management differs. Galactocele is reported for its characteristic appearance. In the malignant group, metastasis of mixed mucinous carcinoma of the breast to lymph node was described as it carries poor prognosis.