High-Grade Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Breast With Focal Squamous Differentiation

Int J Surg Pathol. 2016 Dec;24(8):738-742. doi: 10.1177/1066896916656444. Epub 2016 Jun 27.

Abstract

Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast is a rare tumor that comprises less than 1% of breast carcinomas, with most patients being in the sixth or seventh decade of their life. In this article, the authors present the case report of a 42-year-old woman with a rapidly growing tumor in her right breast. After clinical staging by physical examination, breast imaging, and thoracoabdominal computed tomography the patient underwent breast-conserving surgery. The histologic results showed a unique type of high-grade, predominantly large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma with focal abrupt squamous differentiation. The authors also discuss the clinical and morphological characteristics of the tumor as well as treatment options.

Keywords: breast cancer; diagnosis; histopathology; neuroendocrine tumors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine / pathology*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Neoplasm Grading

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor