The role of FDG PET/CT in metastatic breast phyllodes tumor and literature review

Abstract

Metastasis of malignant phyllodes tumors is extremely rare that there are only few cases reported in literature. With the aim of providing data and diagnostic guidance, discussing treatments, we present the role of PET/CT, other radiologic modalites. We report a clinical case a 43 years-old female patient who was diagnosed with grade II phyllodes tumor of the breast and treated by surgery and radiotherapy adjuvant (2017). Following up on radiology test after 6 years (02/2023), the patient has diagnosed with bilateral lungs metastasis and left upper lobectomy was done. PET/CT scan in Choray hospital after the surgery showed multiple hypermetabolic foci in lungs, thoracic wall, sternum, pancreas, stomach, bones which suggested distant metastases from the prior tumor. Treatments for distant recurrence phyllodes tumors have not been effective and patients often have poor prognosis. However, some new target therapies may help increase life expectancy, improve quality of life.