“Pseudohamartoma” in a lactating breast

M Kaviratna,D S Gunawardena

doi:10.4038/sljr.v6i1.91

Abstract

This case report describes a gross asymmetric breast enlargement due to a large galactocele and a rapidly growing benign phyllodes tumour in a lactating mother. Imaging appearance of this combination has not been reported previously. Simultaneous occurrence of these two pathologies has given rise to “pseudo-hamartoma appearance” in the mammogram as we illustrate here.

Highlights

Hamartoma is a well-known benign breast entity with a characteristic imaging appearance
We present a considerably similar imaging finding in the breast due to a separate etiology and propose the term ‘pseudo hamartoma’ to describe it
Somewhat similar mammographic appearance in our case is due to coexisting duel pathologies in the same breast and called a ‘pseudo hamartoma’, as illustrated in fig 2

Summary

Introduction

Hamartoma is a well-known benign breast entity with a characteristic imaging appearance. 39 years old lactating mother (P2C2), of Indian ethnicity, presented with an asymmetric enlargement of her left breast since the latter part of her 2nd pregnancy. She has failed to feed from that breast on both pregnancies. A large nontender soft mass was felt on examination at her initial presentation. Her initial ultrasound (US) scan revealed a large cyst with echogenic contents, in keeping with a galactocele. This was aspirated to dryness and confirmed a galactocele with no malignant cells

Objectives

Conclusion