Learning objectives
To identify benign lesions that share malignant features in imaging findingsTo describe the various causes of benign breast lesions that may mimic carcinoma in imaging findingsTo get to the correct diagnosis and to avoid unnecessary surgical interventionTo be familiar with these benign lesions for more appropriate diagnostic approach
Background
This exhibit aims to do a pictorial review of the imaging findings of carcinoma-mimicking benign breast lesions. These presentation include fatty necrosis, diabetic mastopathy, adenosis, sclerosing adenosis, ruptured inflammed cyst, inflammation with abscess, granulomatous mastitis, fibroadenoma, fibroadenomatous mastopathy, apocrine metaplasia.
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
CASE 1. F/27 PALPABLE MASS in LLMQIrregular shape Partially indistinct margin Taller than wideLack of vascularity1. FATTY NECROSISAsymptomatic or palpable Usually result of injury to breast fat US findingsAcute phase: increased echogenicity d/t edemaSubacute phase: complex cystic phaseLate phase (after18months): calcified wall, thick walled or even solidColor Doppler - Internal flow increases concern for recurrent tumor- May see flow in granulation tissue within 6monthsCASE 2. F/47 PALPABLE MASS WITH SKIN THICKENINGPartially indistinct marginExtending into subareolarSkin thickeningPathologic lymph node in axilla2. DIABETIC MASTOPATHYClinical featuresA variant of...
Conclusion
Benign breast lesions somtimes have malignant features in imaging and to be familiar with these benign lesions mimicking breast malignancy can be helpful for radiologists to plan appropriate diagnostic approach.
References
Berg WA et al. Cystic lesions of the breast: sonographic-pathologic correlation. Radiology. 227:183-91,2003Gatta G et al: Clinical, mammographic and ultrasonographic features of blunt breast trauma. Eur J Radiol.2006Crystal P et al: Sonographic findings of palpable isoechoic breast fat necrosis. J Umtrasound Med. 24(1):105-7,2005Bassett LW et al: Diagnosis of Diseases of the Breast. Philadelphia,Elsevier Saunders. 2005