IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Infiltrating lobular breast carcinoma

Case contributed by Garth Kruger
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Workup of a left breast density.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Female
mammography

There is a subtle density just below the equator of the breast, anterior to the pectoral margin, new compared with previous studies.

ultrasound

Ultrasound demonstrates a solid mass. 

Case Discussion

On biopsy, an infiltrating lobular carcinoma was demonstrated

We breast imagers sometimes miss the lobular carcinomas because they do not present mammographically like IDC. They rarely show calcification and they don't generally develop the density and spiculation we associate with IDC on mammograms.

Always compare with previous studies. Be aware of these lesions and the fact they may appear as very subtle developing densities on mammography. Be wary and attentive of any post-menopausal lady developing unexplained densities on mammography. Lastly, use a high index of suspicion.

Lastly: personally, I am looking forward to see what molecular breast imaging (MBI) is going to do in the diagnosis of these lesions.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.