Breast carcinoma in an obese patient with metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. It arises in the lining cells of the ducts (85%) or in the lobules (15%) of the mammary glandular tissue. There are two main types: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which originates in the mammary ducts, and invasive carcinoma. Other types, such as phyllodes tumors and angiosarcoma, are less common.

Breast cancer most frequently presents as a painless, hard, palpable mass, breast thickening, changes in the skin and in the appearance of the nipple–areola complex, and abnormal nipple discharge. Obesity is an important risk factor for breast cancer; it has been shown that an increase of 5 BMI units is associated with a 12% increase in breast cancer risk. Postmenopausal women with obesity have a higher risk compared to women of normal weight.

Breast ultrasound performed on the patient using a 7.5 MHz linear transducer was positive, revealing a hypoechoic mass with irregular contours in the right breast. A unilateral radical mastectomy was performed, and the patient is currently under oncological treatment. The images presented correspond to ultrasound studies and digital mammography with craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) views.