Management of Rare Breast Tumors and Male Breast Cancer

Purpose of Review

There is very little clinical trial data available to guide the management of uncommon breast cancers. This review draws on classic and recent retrospective data to synthesize a clearer understanding of the biology and behavior of these rare tumors.

Recent Findings

Avoid disfiguring surgery in the pursuit of very wide margins for benign phyllodes tumors unless there are adverse histological features. Encapsulated papillary carcinoma is very good prognosis breast cancer; do not over treat. Metaplastic carcinoma is a basal type breast cancer that may be more responsive to “BRCA1-like” treatments. Complete excision of the capsule is curative for most implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphomas. Aromatase inhibitors are still controversial for male breast cancer; tamoxifen is standard.

Summary

Available data are useful for guiding the treatment of rare breast cancers, but it must be recognized that there is still a great deal to be learned about each of these entities.