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Case Reports
. 2023 Dec 29;96(4):475-479.
doi: 10.59249/WPKX7733. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Melanoma in the Breast: A Diagnostic Challenge

Marita A John  1 , Niloufar Pourfarrokh  2 , Jaya Ruth Asirvatham  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

Melanoma in the Breast: A Diagnostic Challenge

Marita A John et al. Yale J Biol Med. .

Abstract

Although rare, breast metastases can mimic primary tumors, both clinically, radiologically, and histopathologically. Melanoma is a highly metastasizing tumor, and it is known as a great mimicker of tumors. Metastatic melanoma in the breast can mimic primary breast cancer and pose a diagnostic challenge. In most cases, it is associated with disseminated disease and a poor prognosis, therefore, histologic, immunohistochemical and clinical correlation is crucial in diagnosing these cases. In this case report, we discuss a 63-year-old female who presented with clinical features of probable breast cancer, describe immunohistochemistry workup, and discuss pitfalls in interpretation.

Keywords: Breast; Cancer; E-cadherin; Melanoma; Metastasis.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Hematoxylin & eosin-stained section of metastatic melanoma to breast parenchyma (100x).
Figure 2
Figure 2
MART1 demonstrates cytoplasmic staining within malignant cells (100x).
Figure 3
Figure 3
E-Cadherin stains the membranes of malignant cells (100x).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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