Solid Papillary Carcinoma of the Breast: a Review

Solid papillary carcinoma of the breast is a low-grade tumor originating in the ductal epithelium. It is commonly seen in post-menopausal women and accounts for <1% of all breast cancers. Patients can be asymptomatic, have nipple discharge or present with abnormal mammographic findings. Despite of some radiological features solid papillary carcinoma cannot be accurately diagnosed by imaging alone. The most important characteristic of this tumor is its behavior and unusual pathological feature of lack of myoepithelial cells at the periphery. Its diagnosis can be challenging, and its management is still debated. Management varies from breast conserving surgery to mastectomy. Currently there is no evidence to support the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy. Therefore, accurate diagnosis with adequate local excision with breast-conserving surgery is the optimal treatment.