Case Report: Mucocele-Like Tumor of the Breast Associated With Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

Mucocele-like tumor of the breast is histologically characterized as mucin-containing cysts with mucin leaking to the stroma. It could be associated with atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). We report a case of mucocele-like tumor of the breast associated with DCIS confirmed by paraffin section. We review the literature and discuss the imaging features, pathology, and clinical management of the lesion. These lesions demonstrate characteristic imaging features, and we especially highlight the MR characteristics, as they have not been well documented. Performing a diagnostic fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of mucocele-like tumor carries a risk of tumor underestimation; therefore, excision for all mucocele-like tumors is suggested to be the best approach. However, some recent reports recommend close follow-up for patients with low-risk factors who have mucocele-like tumor without atypia on FNAC.

Automated summary

Mucocele-like tumors of the breast are associated with DCIS and have characteristic imaging features, with MR features not well-documented. FNAC carries a risk of tumor underestimation, so excision is recommended as the best approach, but close follow-up is suggested for low-risk patients.