The aggressive recurrence of radiation-associated angiosarcoma of the breast

Abstract

Background: Radiation-associated angiosarcoma of the breast is a rare diagnosis but its incidence is increasing as more women with early breast cancers are now treated with breast conservation surgeries and adjuvant radiotherapy. Radical excision surgery aims to reduce local recurrence and improve overall survival. Local recurrence is common (ranging from 30 to 92%) and it tends to progress into distant metastasis. There are endless debates over optimal excision margin for local disease control and effective reconstructive options to cover defect.