BACKGROUND: Metastases to the breast from extramammary primary tumors are uncommon. Malignant melanoma is one of the most common neoplasms to secondarily involve the mammary parenchyma. METHODS: Seven cases of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration biopsy are presented. RESULTS: The cytologic findings of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast usually are straightforward on aspiration cytology. However, knowledge of a prior history of melanoma is crucial to make an accurate diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast can be diagnosed reliably by fine-needle aspiration cytology, thus avoiding radical and unnecessary surgery.
BACKGROUND:Metastases to the breast from extramammary primary tumors are uncommon. Malignant melanoma is one of the most common neoplasms to secondarily involve the mammary parenchyma. METHODS: Seven cases of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration biopsy are presented. RESULTS: The cytologic findings of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast usually are straightforward on aspiration cytology. However, knowledge of a prior history of melanoma is crucial to make an accurate diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS:Malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast can be diagnosed reliably by fine-needle aspiration cytology, thus avoiding radical and unnecessary surgery.
Authors: Aislinn Vaughan; Jill R Dietz; Jeffrey F Moley; Mary K Debenedetti; Rebecca L Aft; William E Gillanders; Timothy J Eberlein; Jon Ritter; Julie A Margenthaler Journal: World J Surg Oncol Date: 2007-07-05 Impact factor: 2.754