Rare presentation of metastasized primary neuroendocrine breast carcinoma to the right colon and literature review of primary neuroendocrine breast carcinoma metastasized to other organs of the body: case report

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Primary neuroendocrine breast tumors account for less than 0.1% of all breast cancers, hence, unique in nature. This paper aims to report a 56 years old female, known case of primary neuroendocrine breast cancer with a metastatic right colonic neuro-endocrine tumor. The article also aims to review and acclaim the literature regarding primary breast neuroendocrine tumors metastasized to other parts of the body. The patient presented complaining of a breast mass, ulceration, and discharge, which was rapidly progressing. Examination revealed a right breast mass with skin erythema and impending ulceration and right axillary lymph nodes fixed with palpable supra-clavicular lymph nodes. Ultrasound-guided biopsy of right breast mass and axilla disclosed a large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. CT abdomen and chest revealed metastases to the ascending colon. The patient was treated with palliative radiotherapy along with multiple cycles of chemotherapy for the primary breast cancer. She also underwent a laparoscopic-assisted right hemicolectomy with complete mesocolic excision and primary anastomosis for the metastatic colon cancer. The paper compares the reported case to other similar cases using the framework of an analysis based on age of the patient, primary breast cancer location, method of detection, presence of neuroendocrine markers, primary cancer presentation, metastases symptoms, and location and treatment approach. In conclusion, metastasized primary neuroendocrine breast cancer is a very rare presentation. Incidence and prevalence maybe influenced by age, primary breast cancer location, and presence of neuroendocrine markers. Prognosis may also be a product of metastatic location, associated symptoms and treatment approaches.