Mammary matrix producing carcinoma – A rare entity

Matrix producing carcinoma of the breast is a unique subclass of metaplastic carcinoma, which is characterized by the existence of a ductal carcinomatous component with direct transition to areas showing cartilaginous or osseous differentiation lacking an interspersed spindle cell element. The tumor is of epithelial-myoepithelial histogenesis. It is said to carry a better prognosis compared to other metaplastic carcinomas, despite the presence of heterologous elements, which generally implies an aggressive course. Nodal metastases are also infrequently encountered. This article reports one such rare case in a 46-year-old woman, not just for its’ peculiarity at microscopy, but also to highlight its’ clinical behavior and hence, the need for its’ recognition.