J Breast Dis.  2024 Dec;12(2):33-36. 10.14449/jbd.2024.12.2.33.

Radiological and Pathological Challenges in Diagnosing Pleomorphic Lobular Carcinoma In Situ With Focal Invasion: A Case Report

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Radiology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
  • 2Departments of Radiology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun-gun, Korea
  • 3Departments of Pathology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun-gun, Korea
  • 4Departments of Surgery, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun-gun, Korea

Abstract

Pleomorphic lobular carcinoma in situ (PLCIS) is a relatively uncommon subtype of lobular neoplasia, characterized by large pleomorphic discohesive cells exhibiting marked nuclear atypia, frequent central comedo-necrosis, and microcalcifications. Owing to these features, PLCIS is difficult to distinguish using radiological and histological analyses with high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ. This report presents a case in which breast PLCIS was initially misdiagnosed as invasive ductal carcinoma based on core-needle biopsy and radiological findings. However, further investigation confirmed the diagnosis of PLCIS with invasive lobular carcinoma, measuring only 1.04 mm. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenges of PLCIS, which mimics invasive ductal carcinoma, causing unnecessarily aggressive treatment. Notably, this warrants careful pathological and radiological evaluations for accurate diagnosis and guides appropriate management.

Keyword

Breast carcinoma in situ; Lobular carcinoma; Diagnostic imaging
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