Case Report: Aggressive Recurrence of a Malignant Phyllodes Tumor with Rapid Progression and Mediastinal Invasion

Abstract

Phyllodes tumors are rare breast neoplasms characterized histologically by leaf-like architecture. These tumors can present as benign, borderline, or malignant. This case report describes a 35-year-old female with a rapidly enlarging mass in her right breast over a span of three months. On physical examination, a large mass was observed throughout the entire right breast. The patient underwent surgical treatment with a mastectomy, and the surgical site was closed using abdominal muscle flaps. Postoperative histopathological examination revealed a malignant phyllodes tumor with clear surgical margins. The patient subsequently received adjuvant radiotherapy. During follow-up, metastasis to the lungs was detected nine months post-surgery, along with a mass in the mediastinum, which rapidly invaded the major veins, resulting in bilateral arm swelling and facial edema. This article will discuss the general knowledge and types of phyllodes tumors, the significance of surgical intervention in their treatment, and the recurrence of this tumor type.