Metastatic melanoma in the breast and axilla: A case report

Clin Imaging. 2022 May:85:78-82. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2022.02.014. Epub 2022 Feb 22.

Abstract

Metastatic melanoma of the breast is rare, and demonstrates nonspecific imaging findings which may overlap with both benign and malignant pathology.1-3 Immunohistochemical stains are important to confirm the diagnosis, particularly combining S100, a sensitive marker for melanoma, with more specific tumor markers such as Melan-A and HMB-45, and lack of cytokeratin staining.4-7 We present a case of a 64-year-old female who presented for diagnostic imaging of a palpable abnormality in her right breast, with medical history notable for previously excised cutaneous melanoma, recent COVID-19 vaccination, and significant family history of breast cancer. Diagnostic mammogram of the right breast demonstrated a circumscribed mass in the lower inner quadrant corresponding to the area of palpable concern, as well as an additional non-palpable circumscribed mass in the lower inner quadrant. Targeted right breast ultrasound demonstrated corresponding circumscribed cystic versus solid masses as well as a morphologically abnormal right axillary lymph node. Pathologic results after tissue sampling of the two right breast masses and right axillary lymph node all yielded metastatic melanoma.

Keywords: Metastatic melanoma; Palpable breast mass; Unilateral axillary lymphadenopathy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Axilla / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms* / pathology
  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • COVID-19*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymphatic Metastasis / pathology
  • Melanoma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Melanoma* / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines