Cutaneous lesions in sporadic angiosarcomas of the breast: a misleading presentation

Eur J Dermatol. 2016 Jun 1;26(3):287-9. doi: 10.1684/ejd.2016.2743.

Abstract

Primary angiosarcoma of the breast is a rare malignant tumour that presents in young women as a painless mass or a sensation of fullness in the breast. To report two cases of primary breast angiosarcoma presenting with unusual and misleading cutaneous lesions. A clinical investigation including ultrasound, MRI and histological examination. In the first patient, the lesion appeared as a superficial, acquired angioma; in the second as an indolent superficial haematoma. This type of primary presentation is exceptional and the benign appearance of the lesion, combined with a lack of breast mass, is misleading. The benign appearance and the pathological aspect of these lesions can lead to misdiagnosis. Comparison of clinical and pathological data is necessary to prevent delay in diagnosis. We believe that all acquired angiomatous lesions developing on the breasts of young women should raise suspicion of angiosarcoma.

Keywords: angioma; angiosarcoma; breast; hematoma; tumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Female
  • Hemangiosarcoma / diagnosis*
  • Hemangiosarcoma / pathology
  • Hemangiosarcoma / secondary
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Young Adult