Axillary ectopic lobular carcinoma of breast: two rare case reports.

OBJECTIVE: The presence of ectopic or supernumerary breast tissue is a rare event, related to a not complete regression of breast tissue along the milk line. Primary ectopic breast cancer of the axilla can create many difficulties in differential diagnosis with subsequent delayed specific treatments. The incidence of ectopic breast tissue is 0.2-6%, and the axilla is the most common site involved. In this tissue, the same physiologic and pathologic changes as seen in ectopic breast tissue may occur, including carcinoma formation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two patients (a 56 years old and 70 years old women) came to our attention for the recent development painless nodular axillary lesions, clinically characterized by an increased thickness, irregular margins and adherence to the floors below.

RESULTS: Patients underwent ultrasonography (US) and mammography (MMG) revealing non-specific features of the lesions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), demonstrated margins slightly irregular and a non-specific appearance of each lesion. Both patients underwent wide local excision with axillary lymph node dissection. Histological examination showed infiltrating lobular carcinomas of the breasts.

CONCLUSIONS: We describe two unusual cases of ectopic axillary breast carcinoma localization. It is important a correct and fast diagnosis with a local examination, diagnostic instruments, surgical excision and histological examination.