Sarcomas of the breast belong to a heterogeneous group of breast tumors of
mesenchymal origin, without epithelial components. These tumors can be primary
or secondary (after previous treatment for breast cancer), are rare, present
aggressive behavior, and have a poor prognosis. They occur mainly in women
between 45 and 50 years of age, with the exception of angiosarcomas, which can
occur in younger patients. Clinically, breast sarcomas manifest as palpable,
mobile, rapidly growing masses, without skin thickening, axillary
lymphadenopathy, or nipple discharge. Although the imaging findings are non
specific, they can be suggestive of sarcoma. For instance, a solitary mass
showing rapid growth, with circumscribed or indistinct margins and, a complex
(solid-cystic) or heterogeneous echotexture, without axillary lymph node
involvement, can raise the suspicion of sarcoma. The treatment is not well
established, because of the rarity and heterogeneity of this type of neoplasm.
The principles of treatment for sarcoma of the breast have been addressed only
in small cohort studies. In most cases, the treatment of choice is surgery
without axillary lymphadenectomy.
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