Hyun Jo Youn1, Sung Hoo Jung. 1. Division of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Department of Surgery, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea.
Abstract
SUMMARY: BACKGROUND: Ectopic breast tissue usually develops along the mammary ridges, and the incidence has been reported to be 2-6% of the general population. Occurrence of primary carcinoma in ectopic breast tissue is rare. CASE REPORT: We report the case of 59-year-old woman with accessory breast carcinoma in her left axilla. CONCLUSION: Because an accessory areola or nipple is often missing and awareness of physicians and patients about these unsuspicious masses is lacking, clinical diagnosis of accessory breast carcinoma is frequently delayed. Therefore, a mass along the 'milk line' should be examined carefully, and any suspicious lesions should be evaluated.
SUMMARY: BACKGROUND: Ectopic breast tissue usually develops along the mammary ridges, and the incidence has been reported to be 2-6% of the general population. Occurrence of primary carcinoma in ectopic breast tissue is rare. CASE REPORT: We report the case of 59-year-old woman with accessory breast carcinoma in her left axilla. CONCLUSION: Because an accessory areola or nipple is often missing and awareness of physicians and patients about these unsuspicious masses is lacking, clinical diagnosis of accessory breast carcinoma is frequently delayed. Therefore, a mass along the 'milk line' should be examined carefully, and any suspicious lesions should be evaluated.