TURKISH JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY
2010 , Vol 25 , Num 2
Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast: a case presenting with Octreoscan™ positive skin metastases
1Departments of Medical Oncology, İstanbul University Oncology Institute, İstanbul2Departments of Radiation Oncology, İstanbul University Oncology Institute, İstanbul
3Departments of Nuclear Medicine, İstanbul University İstanbul Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul
4Departments of Pathology, İstanbul University İstanbul Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast is very rare and has been revealed as a result of the widespread use of sensitive techniques for the detection of neuroendocrine markers. Published cases number less than 30, all presenting with a lump in the breast as the first sign. We report a case of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast that presented first with skin metastases. A 60-year-old woman with coin skin lesions, 2-3 cm, on the back, belly, and side of the hip was admitted to Istanbul University Oncology Institute. Histopathological results of a punch biopsy revealed lymphangitis carcinomatosa. Mammography and sonography performed as part of the systemic evaluation demonstrated a 6 mm solid lesion. Subsequent evaluation of the biopsy specimen revealed primary neuroendocrine carcinoma. First-line hormonotherapy with letrozole, to inhibit the estrogen receptor, together with monthly injections of long-acting 30 mg octreotide, for the skin lesions, were initiated. The patient was followed-up for 20 months, during which time no progression was observed. Then relaps was seen in the lungs and died six months later. Diagnosis, therapy, and follow-up of the case are presented. Keywords : Octreoscan; neuroendocrine carcinoma of breast