Primary Small Cell Neuroendocrine Tumor of Breast: A Mammary Gland Enigma

Abstract

Background: Primary small cell neuroendocrine tumor of the breast is a rare form of tumor with very few reported cases in the medical literature. The rarity of the disease has produced a lacuna in the management algorithms of the disease. Most of the times extrapolation of management protocols of small cell carcinoma lung is employed. Case Report: We report here a primary small cell neuroendocrine tumor of the breast in a post-menopausal lady. The diagnosis was reached by DOTA-NOC scan, considered highly specific for neuroendocrine tumors and post-operative histopathological examination. Conclusion: Breast is an extremely rare site for primary small cell carcinoma. Management protocols in existence are yet to be standardized.