An aggressive and recurrent bilateral breast angiosarcoma in a young woman

An aggressive and recurrent bilateral breast angiosarcoma in a young woman

Authors

  • Marina Balbino Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Foggia University School of Medicine, Foggia, Italy https://orcid.org/0009-0009-2808-5708
  • Manuela Montatore Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Foggia University School of Medicine, Foggia, Italy https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1526-5047
  • Federica Masino Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Foggia University School of Medicine, Foggia, Italy https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4289-3289
  • Daniela Erriquez Breast Unit, “Dimiccoli” Hospital, Barletta, Italy
  • Francesca Anna Carpagnano Breast Unit, “Dimiccoli” Hospital, Barletta, Italy
  • Giuseppe Guglielmi Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Foggia University School of Medicine, Foggia, Italy; Radiology Unit, “Dimiccoli” Hospital, Barletta, Italy; Radiology Unit, “IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza” Hospital, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4325-8330

Keywords:

Angiosarcoma, breast cancer, advanced breast cancer, cancer recurrence, breast angiosarcoma, sarcomas

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Breast sarcoma is an uncommon kind of cancer that starts in the breast's connective tissues, which include the muscles, fat, blood vessels, and other tissues that support the breast. Breast sarcomas are not the same as more prevalent forms of breast cancer, which usually originate from glandular tissue (ducts or lobules). Breast sarcoma has several subtypes, one of which is angiosarcoma. It is characterized by aggression and originates from blood vessels. Less than 1% of all breast malignancies are breast angiosarcomas, making them extremely uncommon. When compared to other more prevalent types of breast cancer, it frequently affects younger women.

Methods: To better identify and distinguish breast angiosarcoma from other lesions, it is critical to assess and optimize currently available imaging modalities, such as mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results: Since angiosarcoma is an uncommon kind of cancer, there is a shortage of precise information on its course. Nonetheless, in comparison to more prevalent forms of breast cancer, angiosarcoma of the breast typically has a poorer prognosis. This is mostly because it is frequently detected at a later stage, and it may have a higher propensity to spread quickly to other body areas.

Conclusions: Breast angiosarcoma is a rare cancer that can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, its aggressive nature may not always lead to effective treatment. The prognosis depends on factors like disease stage, tumor size, treatment response, and personal factors. Understanding angiosarcoma can help prevent misdiagnoses and prompt early medical attention. Medical professionals with extensive knowledge can offer specialized treatment and management approaches to patients with this rare cancer.

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Published

26-02-2025

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Section

CASE REPORTS

How to Cite

1.
Balbino M, Montatore M, Masino F, Erriquez D, Carpagnano FA, Guglielmi G. An aggressive and recurrent bilateral breast angiosarcoma in a young woman. Acta Biomed. 2025;96(1):15735. doi:10.23750/abm.v96i1.15735