An Unusual Presentation of Metastatic Breast Carcinoma

Abstract

Cutaneous metastasis from a carcinoma is a relatively uncommon phenomenon. Prompt diagnosis is crucial, as it will have future implications, particularly regarding prognosis and treatment. Skin metastases can be suspected and recognized earlier through physical examination than metastases in other organs or systems. However, they can be a diagnostic challenge due to the variable clinical presentation. This case highlights the importance of having a high index of suspicion for cutaneous metastases, especially in patients with a previous history of cancer. LEARNING POINTS Cutaneous metastases occur in approximately 0.7–10% of patients with invasive carcinomas and, when present, usually indicate an unfavourable outcome. Clinically, cutaneous metastasis can pose a diagnostic challenge and a high index of suspicion is mandatory for a prompt diagnosis. Skin biopsy of such lesions is important to confirm the diagnosis and, in the right clinical scenario, they can provide information on the primary origin of the tumour.

Rapid Response of Breast Cancer Cutaneous Metastasis to Single-Agent Palbociclib: A Case Report

“…Skin biopsy with histopathological and immunohistochemical staining remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Traditionally, cutaneous metastasis signifies grave prognosis as it represents a higher stage and poor response to treatment [6]. However, recent studies suggest that breast cancer cutaneous metastasis has better prognosis compared to other internal malignancies.…”