Male Breast Carcinoma Metastatic to the Choroid: Report of 3 Cases and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Breast cancer is a rare cause of choroidal metastases in men. Radiotherapy is effective as a palliative treatment for choroidal metastases.

Choroidal metastasis from breast cancer in a male patient treated successfully with systemic chemotherapy

“…Breast cancer accounts for 39-49% of all uveal metastases [2], and the choroid represents the most common site of uveal involvement by metastatic disease [5], likely because of its highly vascular structure and relatively slow blood flow allowing for hematogenous spread. In fact, the true incidence of choroidal metastases from breast cancer is underestimated due to the lack of routine ocular screening for all breast cancer patients [5], the late onset in the course of the disease and other predominant systemic symptoms [6]. It has been estimated that in the United States, approximately 25 cases of choroidal metastasis can be expected per year in men with breast cancer [7].…”

“…To the best of our knowledge, only 23 cases of choroidal metastasis from breast carcinoma, in men, were reported in literature. The mean age at discovery of choroidal metastasis and the mean interval from diagnosis of primary cancer were respectively 57.5 and 13.5 years [6]. Choroidal metastasis can be unilateral or bilateral and unifocal or multifocal [6].…”

“…The mean age at discovery of choroidal metastasis and the mean interval from diagnosis of primary cancer were respectively 57.5 and 13.5 years [6]. Choroidal metastasis can be unilateral or bilateral and unifocal or multifocal [6]. Breast cancer metastases have the greatest likelihood of occurring multifocally and bilaterally, with 33% patients afflicted in both eyes [1].…”

“…Ocular metastasis from breast cancer may be either the initial manifestation or the initial site of systemic metastasis or preceded by metastases to other organs [5,6]. Furthermore, the dissemination of breast cancer to more than one organ and the presence of lung and brain metastases were significant risk factors for choroidal metastasis [8].…”

Male Breast Carcinoma Metastatic to the Choroid: A Case Report and Opinions of Management

“…27 Hood et al described 3 cases of male BC metastasis to choroid and reviewed 19 cases that had been published earlier, of all the 22 male patients, 11 patients received EBRT with or without systemic therapies, and their choroid lesions regressed. 28 Acute and late side effects of radiotherapy include erythema, conjunctivitis, cataract, keratopathy, retinopathy, neovascularization of the iris and optic neuropathy. Because metastatic cancers always lead to limited survival and short follow-up, both severe side effects and good tolerance of the radiotherapy were rarely reported in publications.…”