Breast involvement of hematological malignancies: imaging and clinical findings

Abstract

Background Breast involvement of hematological malignancies is a very rare entity. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical and radiological findings of hematological malignancy breast involvement and to describe possible pitfalls in diagnosis. Results The images of 20 patients with breast involvement of hematological malignancies were retrospectively evaluated on ultrasonography, mammography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the findings were reported. Bilaterality was seen only in cases with secondary involvement, and there was no marked difference between primary and secondary breast involvement of hematological malignancies. All patients underwent ultrasonography examination. According to ultrasonography, breast masses were most frequently irregular in shape (11/20, 55%) with non-circumscribed margins (11/20, 55%). Posterior acoustic enhancement was noted in 14 cases (70%). Posterior shadowing was not observed in any of the patients. Mammography was available in 10 patients. Microcalcification was not observed in any patient on mammography. MRI was available in four patients. Hyperintensity in T2-weighted images, type 2 or type 3 dynamic curve, and diffusion restriction were observed in all cases. Conclusions Hematological malignancies may mimic both benign breast lesions and breast carcinoma. Familiarity with the radiological features of hematological malignancies can help accurate diagnosis.