Ductal carcinoma in-situ arising within benign phyllodes tumours: review of the literature and case presentation

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Phyllodes tumor (PT) is a rare benign tumor of the breast with a propensity to recur and metastasize. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) within PT is an extremely rare finding and is usually diagnosed postoperatively. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of a 24-year-old female with bilateral multiple fibroadenomatosis and a growing lump in her right breast diagnosed as a atypical lobular hyperplasia. Preoperatively, surgical biopsy revealed DCIS within benign PT. DISCUSSION: Phyllodes tumors are rare and ones with a coexisting carcinoma are even less frequently encountered. No standard management protocol exists for such cases, but when detected by histopathology, the clinical management and prognosis have to undergo a complete change. Treatment should be guided by the type and stage of carcinoma detected and proper individualized management by a multidisciplinary team play a crucial role. CONCLUSION: Phyllodes tumors are rare and ones with a coexisting carcinoma are even less frequently encountered. No standard management protocol exists for such cases, but when detected by histopathology, the clinical management and prognosis have to undergo a complete change. Preoperative diagnosis and proper individualized management by a multidisciplinary team that ensures clear surgical margins and planned adjuvant therapy or close follow up play a crucial role in preventing the recurrence of DCIS within PT.