Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast: The Challenge Persists

Predicting Prognosis of Phyllodes Tumors Using a Mammography- and Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Radiomics Model: A Preliminary Study

PURPOSE

To investigate whether a radiomics model based on mammography (MG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to predict disease-free survival (DFS) after phyllodes tumor (PT) surgery.

METHOD

About 131 PT patients who underwent MG and MRI before surgery between January 2010 and December 2020 were retrospectively enrolled, including 15 patients with recurrence and metastasis and 116 without recurrence. 884 and 3138 radiomic features were extracted from MG and MR images, respectively. Then, multiple radiomics models were established to predict the recurrence risk of the patients by applying a support vector machine classifier. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate model performance. After dividing the patients into high- and low-risk groups based on the predicted radiomics scores, survival analysis was conducted to compare differences between the groups.

RESULTS

In total, 3 MG-related and 5 MRI-related radiomic models were established; the prediction performance of the T1WI feature fusion model was the best, with an AUC value of 0.93. After combining the features of MG and MRI, the AUC increased to 0.95. Furthermore, the MG, MRI and all-image radiomic models had statistically significant differences in survival between the high- and low-risk groups (P < .001). All-image radiomics model showed higher survival performance than the MG and MRI radiomics models alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiomics features based on preoperative MG and MR images can predict DFS after PT surgery, and the prediction score of the image radiomics model can be used as a potential indicator of recurrence risk.

Relapsing malignant phyllodes tumour presenting as isolated acrometastases

Malignant phyllodes tumours (PTs) are aggressive neoplasms with high rates of local recurrence and distant metastasis. With no known effective chemotherapy and no approved targeted therapy in the setting of metastatic disease, prognosis is limited with an often-relapsing course of disease. We report a case of a woman in her late 30s with a diagnosis of recurrent metastatic malignant PT who was found to have acrometastases of the malignant PT to the right distal index and small digits. We emphasise the potential for atypical patterns of metastases in patients with malignant PT and the need to recognise acrometastasis as an unusual but morbid manifestation of disease. Given the high growth rate of malignant PTs, the lack of systemic treatment options, and the ensuing distress for patients, prompt diagnosis and early intervention is crucial.

Management of Benign Phyllodes Tumors: A Dutch Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Between 1989 and 2022

BACKGROUND

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are rare tumors of the breast. The current National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend excision of benign PTs, accepting close or positive margins. Controversy about the optimal treatment for benign PTs remains, especially regarding the preferred margin width after surgical excision and the need for follow-up evaluation.

METHODS

A nationwide retrospective study analyzed the Dutch population from 1989 to 2022. All patients with a diagnosis of benign PT were identified through a search in the Dutch nationwide pathology databank (Palga). Information on age, year of diagnosis, size of the primary tumor, surgical treatment, surgical margin status, and local recurrence was collected.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 1908 patients with benign PT. The median age at diagnosis was 43 years (interquartile range [IQR], 34-52 years), and the median tumor size was 30 mm (IQR, 19-40 mm). Most of the patients (95%) were treated with breast-conserving surgery (BCS). The overall local recurrence rate was 6.2%, and the median time to local recurrence was 31 months (IQR, 15-61 months). Local recurrence was associated with bilaterality of the tumor (odds ratio [OR], 4.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.95-28.30) and positive margin status (OR, 2.51; 95% CI 1.36-4.63). The local recurrence rate was 8.9% for the patients with positive excision margins and 4.0% for the patients with negative excision margins. Notably, for 27 patients (22.6%) who experienced a local recurrence, histologic upgrading of the recurrent tumor was reported, 7 (5.9%) of whom had recurrence as malignant lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide series of 1908 patients showed a low local recurrence rate of 6.2% for benign PT, with higher recurrence rates following positive margins.

Transformation of a Benign-Appearing Fibroepithelial Lesion to a Giant Malignant Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast

This is a case of a woman who presented with a left breast mass that was initially diagnosed as fibroadenoma on core biopsy and, after three years without any surgical intervention, was found to be a malignant phyllodes tumor. Initially, a core needle biopsy of the mass showed probable fibroadenoma. Because of the initial benign seeming diagnosis and the need to treat her tongue cancer, the patient did not recognize the need for a recommended surgical consultation and excision. Three years later, she presented after the mass had enlarged to encompass nearly the whole left breast. Core needle biopsy revealed spindle cell proliferation with scattered benign-looking tubules. Due to the large size of the mass, she underwent a total mastectomy, and the final pathology demonstrated a malignant phyllodes tumor. This case demonstrates a case of progression of a benign-appearing fibroepithelial lesion to a malignant phyllodes tumor three years later.

Management of phyllodes tumor: A systematic review and meta-analysis of real-world evidence

BACKGROUND

Phyllodes tumor is rare but has a high recurrence rate. Treatment modalities and clinicopathological prognostic factors for recurrence remain unclear. The synthesis of real-world data can enable the integration of sufficient evidence on optimal treatment for this population.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for studies focusing on the management of phyllodes tumor including the surgical margin, different clinicopathological prognostic factors, and postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy versus no radiotherapy.

RESULTS

Fifty-two studies were retrieved. The pooled estimated recurrence rates of benign, borderline, and malignant tumors were 7.1%, 16.7%, and 25.1%, respectively. Surgical margins of 1 mm (odds ratio [OR]: 0.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.27-0.61) and 1 cm (OR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.15-0.85) resulted in significantly higher recurrence rates. Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy significantly reduced the recurrence rate of malignant tumors relative to no radiotherapy (P = 0.034) but did not significantly reduce the recurrence rates of overall and borderline tumors. Regarding clinicopathological features, moderate or severe stromal atypia and hypercellularity, stromal overgrowth, mitotic number of 5, tumor necrosis, tumor border, and margin status were determined as independent prognostic factors for recurrence, except a tumor size of 5 cm.

CONCLUSION

The ideal surgical margin for phyllodes tumor incision should be at least 1 cm in width. Adjuvant radiotherapy reduced the recurrence of malignant tumor. By identifying patients with poor clinicopathological risk factors, surgeons may reduce the recurrence rate of phyllodes tumor.

Local recurrence for phyllodes tumours of the breast: Systematic review and meta‑analysis

The objective of the present systematic review was the determination of methodologies preferable for treating phyllodes tumors (PTs) of the breast and whether the malignancy of the tumor is of significance to the selected treatment. In addition, to investigate if local recurrence (LR) within patients is different based on the therapeutic approach followed by the physician. All studies were gathered by utilization of the biggest online medical databases in the world including PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Due to the specificity of the study, the resultant set of studies included in the present analysis was not large. All included studies had to refer to patients diagnosed with PTs of the breast, include the malignancy of the tumor and the preferred treatment. Moreover, they included a reference to LR post-treatment, even if there wasn't any. The age range of patients was 20–55 years old and follow-ups should have been performed. As a result, from the initial 484 studies gathered and after proper and thorough evaluation, only 10 were of significance. The studies appeared heterogeneous in terms of population, topology, treatment methodology, additional therapeutic approaches, LR rate, age and follow-up periods. Overall, excisions were used for non-malignant tumors while mastectomy was preferable for tumors with malignancy. Radiotherapy was used both as an additional treatment for tumors and LR. Also, it was revealed that LR varied based on the malignancy and treatment methodology.

Re-Classification with Outcome Correlation of Previously Diagnosed Malignant Phyllodes Tumors Applying the 2016 Consensus Guidelines

Background. Classification of phyllodes tumors is challenging due unclear diagnostic criteria, recently addressed by consensus review criteria. Herein, we reviewed all malignant phyllodes tumor resections and reclassified them based on the consensus guidelines, correlating with outcome. We hypothesize that application of criteria would result in a significant proportion being "down-graded" to either borderline or benign phyllodes tumor. Methods. Primary resections of malignant phyllodes tumor were reviewed by four AP board-certified, breast fellowship-trained pathologists. Morphologic variables delineated in consensus guidelines (ie stromal cellularity, cellular atypia, tumor border, presence of heterologous elements, presence of stromal overgrowth) were evaluated. Following review, cases were reclassified as benign, borderline, or malignant. Results. Upon reclassification, 20% (5/20) cases were "down-graded" to borderline phyllodes tumor while 80% (15/20) remained malignant phyllodes tumor. Two morphologic features were statistically significant including broadly infiltrating tumor border in 80% (12/15) of malignant phyllodes tumors compared to none in borderline phyllodes tumor (0/5) (p = 0.004) and stromal overgrowth in 67% (10/15) of malignant phyllodes tumor compared to none in borderline phyllodes tumors (0/5) (p = 0.03). Upon review of the pathology reports, 30% (6/20) contained all 5 histomorphologic variables delineated in the consensus review criteria. Malignant phyllodes tumor resulted in five cases with recurrence (33.3%, 5/15) and three cases with metastases (20.0%, 3/15) and borderline phyllodes tumor resulted in one case with recurrence (20.0%, 1/5) and no metastases (0/5). Conclusion. The consensus guidelines for phyllodes tumor are useful for subclassification. We hypothesize that standardize reporting of the histomorphologic variables may lead to better consensus.

Under- and Normal-Weight Patients Are More Susceptible to Recurrence of Phyllodes Tumor

Purpose

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) of the breast are rare fibroepithelial neoplasms, and factors associated with the recurrence of PTs are poorly understood. This study sought to identify clinicopathological factors associated with the recurrence of PTs.

Method

From January 2009 to December 2019, we identified 100 patients who underwent definitive surgery for PT. Clinicopathological risk factors associated with the recurrence of PT were assessed.

Results

The median age of the patients was 44 y (range, 19–62 y), and the median tumor size was 4 cm (0.8–30 cm). At a median follow-up of 26.7 mo (0–103 mo), 22 of the 100 patients experienced local recurrence. In the univariate and multivariate analyses, body mass index ≥ 23 kg/m² (P = 0.042 in the univariate analysis; P = 0.039 in the multivariate analysis), tumor size ≥ 5 cm (P = 0.006 in the univariate analysis; P = 0.036 in the multivariate analysis), and the presence of stromal overgrowth (P = 0.032 in the univariate analysis; P = 0.040 in the multivariate analysis) were associated with an increased risk of local recurrence. Resection margins and grade were not associated with local recurrence.

Conclusion

Normal- or underweight patients and those with larger tumor sizes were more prone to local recurrence. Further larger, multicenter studies with a long-term follow-up are required.

MED12 exon 2 and TERT promoter mutations in primary and recurrent breast fibroepithelial lesions

The genetic alterations in the recurrent breast fibroepithelial tumors are poorly understood. In the present study, we aimed to investigate mediator protein complex subunit 12 (MED12) exon 2 and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations in a series of primary and recurrent fibroepithelial tumors. Sanger sequencing for MED12 exon 2 and TERT promoter was performed in 26 pairs of primary and recurrent fibroepithelial tumors (19 pairs of phyllodes tumors and seven pairs of fibroadenomas). The relationship between the genotypes and clinicopathological variables was also analyzed. MED12 mutation was identified in 19 primary tumors (12 phyllodes tumors and 7 fibroadenomas) and 17 recurrences (14 phyllodes tumors and three fibroadenomas). Most recurrent phyllodes tumors retained the original MED12 variants (17/19). Six recurrent fibroadenomas showed different MED12 variants from their paired primary tumors (6/7). TERT promoter mutation was identified in 13 primary phyllodes tumors (13/19) and 15 recurrent phyllodes tumors (15/19). However, it was only identified in one primary fibroadenoma (1/7). Recurrent phyllodes tumors often retained the original MED12 and TERT promoter mutations, while recurrent fibroadenomas often acquired new MED12 mutations. Our findings suggest that recurrent phyllodes tumors may be "true recurrence," and TERT mutant "benign fibroepithelial tumors" should be treated as phyllodes tumors.

Correlations of morphological features and surgical management with clinical outcome in a multicentre study of 241 phyllodes tumours of the breast

AIMS

Phyllodes tumours (PTs) represent an unusual but complex group of breast lesions with a tendency to recur locally and, less commonly, metastasise. On core biopsies, their appearances can be difficult to discriminate from those of other fibroepithelial lesions, which may compromise their surgical management. The aims of this study were to assess the preoperative diagnosis of PTs and to evaluate the impacts of surgical management and morphological features on their behaviour.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We combined datasets from three centres over two decades, including core biopsies, excision specimens, and follow-up. Core biopsy results were compared with final excision specimens. The relationships of surgical procedure and morphological features with local recurrence (LR) and metastasis were assessed. Two hundred and forty-one PTs were studied. Core biopsy resulted in a diagnosis of possible or definite PT in 76% of cases. Malignant tumours were more likely to be larger, occurred at an older age, and were surgically more challenging, with difficulties being encountered in achieving negative margins. There were 12 cases (5%) that showed LR alone, and another six cases (2.5%) that had distant metastases. Morphological features associated with adverse outcome were grade of PT, increased mitotic counts, necrosis, infiltrative margins, stromal atypia, and heterologous components. Both LR and metastatic behaviour correlated with larger size and distance to margins.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that excision margins have a significant impact on LR of PT, whereas metastatic behaviour is influenced by tumour biology. We add to the evidence base on histological features of tumours that contribute to long-term outcomes of PT patients.

Contemporary Multi-Institutional Cohort of 550 Cases of Phyllodes Tumors (2007-2017) Demonstrates a Need for More Individualized Margin Guidelines

PURPOSE

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are rare breast neoplasms, which have little granular data on margins. Current guidelines recommend ≥ 1 cm margins; however, recent data suggest narrower margins are sufficient, and for benign PT, a negative margin may not be necessary.

METHODS

We performed an 11-institution contemporary (2007-2017) review of PT practices. Demographics, surgical, and histopathologic data were captured. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association of select covariates with local recurrence (LR).

RESULTS

Of 550 PT patients, the majority underwent excisional biopsy (55.3%, n = 302/546) or lumpectomy (wide excision) (38.5%, n = 210/546). Median tumor size was 30 mm, 68.9% (n = 379) were benign, 19.6% (n = 108) borderline, and 10.5% (n = 58) malignant. Surgical margins were positive in 42% (n = 231) and negative in 57.3% (n = 311). A second operation was performed in 38.0% (n = 209) of the total cohort, including 51 patients with an initial negative margin (82.4% with < 2 mm), and 157 with an initial positive margin, with residual disease only found in six (2.9%). Notably, 32.0% (n = 74) of those with an initial positive margin did not undergo a second operation, among whom only 2.7% (n = 2) recurred. Recurrence occurred in 3.3% (n = 18) of the total cohort (n = 15 LR, n = 3 distant), at median follow-up of 36.7 months. LR (all PT grades) was not reduced with wider negative margin width (≥ 2 mm v < 2 mm: odds ratio [OR] = 0.39; 95% CI, 0.07 to 2.10; P = .27) or final margin status (positive v negative: OR = 0.96; 95% CI, 0.26 to 3.52; P = .96).

CONCLUSION

In current practice, many patients are managed outside of current guidelines. For the entire cohort, a wider margin width was not associated with a reduced risk of LR. We do not recommend re-excision of a negative margin for benign PT, regardless of margin width, as a progressively wider surgical margin is unlikely to reduce LR.

Germline Genetic Mutations in a Multi-center Contemporary Cohort of 550 Phyllodes Tumors: An Opportunity for Expanded Multi-gene Panel Testing

BACKGROUND

A paucity of data exists regarding inherited mutations associated with phyllodes tumors (PT); however, some are reported (TP53, BRCA1, and RB1). A PT diagnosis does not meet NCCN criteria for testing, including within Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (TP53). We sought to determine the prevalence of mutations associated with PT.

METHODS

We performed an 11-institution review of contemporary (2007-2017) PT practice. We recorded multigenerational family history and personal history of genetic testing. We identified patients meeting NCCN criteria for genetic evaluation. Logistic regression estimated the association of select covariates with likelihood of undergoing genetic testing.

RESULTS

Of 550 PT patients, 59.8% (n = 329) had a close family history of cancer, and 34.0% (n = 112) had ≥ 3 family members affected. Only 6.2% (n = 34) underwent genetic testing, 38.2% (n = 13) of whom had only BRCA1/BRCA2 tested. Of 34 patients tested, 8.8% had a deleterious mutation (1 BRCA1, 2 TP53), and 5.9% had a BRCA2 VUS. Of women who had TP53 testing (N = 21), 9.5% had a mutation. Selection for testing was not associated with age (odds ratio [OR] 1.01, p = 0.55) or PT size (p = 0.12) but was associated with grade (malignant vs. benign: OR 9.17, 95% CI 3.97-21.18) and meeting NCCN criteria (OR 3.43, 95% confidence interval 1.70-6.94). Notably, an additional 86 (15.6%) patients met NCCN criteria but had no genetic testing.

CONCLUSIONS

Very few women with PT undergo germline testing; however, in those selected for testing, a deleterious mutation was identified in ~ 10%. Multigene testing of a PT cohort would present an opportunity to discover the true incidence of germline mutations in PT patients.

Width of margins in phyllodes tumors of the breast: the controversy drags on?-a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Phyllodes tumors (PT) of the breast are rare fibroepithelial neoplasms. Information is controversial in the literature regarding to the optimal surgical management. Most studies suggested margins of at least 10 mm while some recent studies suggested narrower margins without an increased risk of local recurrences (LR) and distant metastases (DM). The objective of this systematic review was to identify and compare studies that assessed these different practices.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed through five databases up to April 2019. Studies exploring the association between the width of margins, subtypes of PT, and the LR and DM rates were considered for inclusion. A statistical model for analyzing sparse data and rare events was used.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies met eligibility criteria and were selected. Considering a threshold of 10 mm (margins < 10 vs margins ≥ 10 mm), the 5-year incidence rate of LR was estimated to be 5.22 vs. 3.63 (diff. -1.59) per 100 person-years for benign PT, 9.60 vs. 7.33 (diff. -2.27) for borderline PT, and 28.58 vs. 21.84 (diff. -6.74) for malignant PT. For DM, it was estimated to be 0.88 vs. 0.86 (diff. -0.02) for benign PT, 1.61 vs. 1.74 (diff. 0.13) for borderline PT, and 4.80 vs 5.18 (diff. 0.38) for malignant PT. The data for a threshold of 1 mm were not sufficient to draw any conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Irrespective of tumor grade, we found that DM was a rarer event than LR. Malignant PT had the highest incidence rate of LR and DM. This meta-analysis found a clear association between width of margins and LR rates. Whatever the tumor grade, surgical margins ≥ 10 mm guaranteed a lower risk of LR than margins < 10 mm. On the other hand, the width of margin did not influence the apparition of DM.

En Bloc Excision of Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast: Radical Approach Heralds Better Outcome

INTRODUCTION

Surgery is the primary treatment of phyllodes tumor of the breast, and margins are the most important risk factor associated with local recurrence. We conducted a retrospective audit of 433 patients treated at our center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Women who presented with phyllodes tumors between 1999 and 2017 were included in the analysis. Data was collected from the hospital medical records, telephonic interviews, and electronic mail.

RESULTS

Of the 433 women included in this study, 177 (40.9%) had benign phyllodes tumors, 84 (19.4%) were borderline, 131 (30.3%) were malignant, and 41 (9.5%) had sarcoma. A history of previous excision was noted in 154 (35.6%) patients, of which 104 presented with local recurrence. Of the total patients, 209 (48.3%) underwent breast conservation surgery; the median pT was 6 cm. At a median follow-up of 37.9 months, the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 82.9%. On multivariate analysis, the factors that impacted DFS were histology (hazard ratio, 4.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5-10.9; P = .005) and history of previous excision biopsy (hazard ratio, 3.39; 95% CI, 1.76-6.52; P < .001). We analyzed 231 women who presented without any prior excision separately, wherein at a median follow-up of 44.1 months, the DFS was 92.1% (95% CI, 92.05%-92.15%). In addition, less recurrences were noted in this cohort (5.6% [13/231] in no-excision biopsy vs. 12.5% with surgery done prior to presentation to our institute).

CONCLUSION

A previous history of excision and the histologic subtype of phyllodes tumor are factors that have an impact on DFS, thus emphasizing the need for appropriate surgical planning and en bloc excision of the phyllodes at presentation.

Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast: A Literature Review

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) of the breast are considered a rare fibroepithelial neoplasms of the breast and are considered a challenging for both pathologists and surgeons. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified PTs histologically as benign, borderline, and malignant. PTs can be detected in all ages; however, the median age of presentation is 45 years. PTs can mimic fibroadenoma in clinical presentations. Breast imaging is also similar to fibroadenomas. Cytological diagnosis of PTs by biopsy is usually unreliable. However, a core needle biopsy is superior to fine-needle aspiration. Surgery is considered the mainstay treatment for PTs of the breast with a goal of achieving negative margins. Adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy use for malignant PTs are controversial.

Adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy for patients with breast phyllodes tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

As the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy for treatment of phyllodes tumors (PTs) remains unclear, this study aimed to review all available data and evaluate the roles of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in PT treatment.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. The outcomes of interest included the local recurrence (LR) rate, metastasis rate, disease-free survival rate and overall survival rate.

Results

Seventeen studies enrolling 696 patients were included in this random effect meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were also conducted to determine study heterogeneity. A pooled local recurrence rate of 8% (95% CI: 1–22%) was observed with a statistical heterogeneity of I² = 86.6% (p < 0.01) for radiotherapy. This was lower than the recurrence rate of 12% for simple surgical treatment (95% CI: 7–18%). Meta-regression analysis found that surgical margin status was the main source of heterogeneity (p = 0.04). The metastasis rate of 4% (95% CI: 0–11%) for patients receiving radiotherapy without significant heterogeneity was also lower than the rate for the simple surgery group (8, 95% CI: 3–15%). The available data for chemotherapy were too limited to support meta-analysis. Accordingly, we offer a pure review of these data.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that radiotherapy is effective in achieving local disease control and preventing metastasis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5585-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Characteristics of Local Recurrence After Breast-Conserving Surgery Alone for Malignant and Borderline Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast (KROG 16-08)

BACKGROUND

Despite margin-negative breast-conserving surgery (BCS), phyllodes tumors (PT) of the breast show high local recurrence (LR) rates. In this study we aimed to assess the site and grade of LR to identify high-risk patients after initial treatment of malignant and borderline PT using BCS alone.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1981 to 2014, 312 patients with malignant (n = 164) and borderline (n = 148) PT were treated using BCS alone at 10 centers. LR was defined as true recurrence (TR) if < 2 cm from the primary tumor bed and as elsewhere failure (EF) if otherwise.

RESULTS

At a median of 21 months, LR occurred in 17.6% (55 of 312), 18.9% (31 of 164) among malignant and 16.2% (24 of 148) among borderline PT (P = .636). Only 1.9% (6 of 312) had EF. Five-year cumulative LR rates were 14.7% and 35.9% after margin-negative and -positive BCS, respectively (P < .001). Positive margin was an independent risk factor for TR (P = .002) and EF (P = .002). In multivariable competing risk regression of patients with negative margins < 1 cm (n = 115), age < 35 years (P = .001), and tumor size ≥ 5 cm (P = .008) independently increased LR risk. Of patients who experienced a LR, 30.9% (17 of 55) had a second or third repeated event. Borderline-to-malignant transformation rates increased at each LR event: 4.1% (6 of 148), 12.5% (3 of 24), and 77.8% (7 of 9) at first, second, and third LR, respectively (P = .006).

CONCLUSION

LRs almost always develop near the primary tumor bed. Many patients experience multiple events, with heightened risk of borderline-to-malignant transformation at each subsequent event. For patients with negative margins < 1 cm, younger age and larger tumor size are independent risk factors for increased LR.

Local Recurrence of Benign, Borderline, and Malignant Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate local recurrence (LR) rates among the three grades (benign, borderline, and malignant) of phyllodes tumors (PTs). The study also assessed various risk factors for LR.

METHODS

Electronic articles published between 1 January 1995 and 31 May 2018, were searched and critically appraised. The authors independently reviewed the abstracts and extracted data for LR rates and LR risk factors.

RESULTS

The review incorporated 54 studies with 9234 individual cases. The pooled LR rates were 8% for benign, 13% for borderline, and 18% for malignant PTs. The risk of LR was significantly increased by borderline versus benign PTs (odds ratio [OR] 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.68-2.38) and malignant versus borderline PTs (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.05-1.55). The significant risk factors for LR were mitoses, tumor border (infiltrating vs. pushing), stromal cellularity (moderate/severe vs. mild), stromal atypia (severe vs. mild/absent), stromal overgrowth (severe vs. mild/absent), and tumor necrosis (positive vs. negative). Age and tumor size were not associated with LR risk. The subgroup analysis showed that breast-conserving surgery versus mastectomy and positive versus negative surgical margins were significantly associated with an increased LR risk only in malignant PTs.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of LR was significantly increased from benign to borderline to malignant PTs. Mitoses, tumor border, stromal cellularity, stromal atypia, stromal overgrowth, tumor necrosis, type of surgery, and surgical margin status may be risk factors for LR. Different management strategies could be considered for different PT grades.

Phyllodes tumors of the breast. The treatment results for 340 patients from a single cancer centre

PURPOSE

The primary treatment of choice for patients with phyllodes tumor of the breast (PTB) is surgery. Two major problems regarding the treatment of such patients remain unclear: what is the appropriate surgical margin and what role is played by adjuvant radiotherapy (ART).

METHODS

The study provides a retrospective review of all patients with PTB treated between 1952 and 2013 at a single institute. The histology slides were re-examined based on WHO criteria. The clinical characteristics and therapy outcomes were obtained. The five-year survival with no evidence of disease (NED) was used as the end point.

RESULTS

The study population comprised 340 women with PTB. Fifty-five percent of the patients were diagnosed with the benign, 11.8% with borderline and 33.2% with malignant PTB. All the patients received primary treatment with surgery (mastectomy-27.1%, and BCS- 72.9%). Local recurrence (LR) was found in 28 (9.1%) of these patients. Four patients with borderline and 8 with malignant PTB who were treated with BCS and had tumor-free margins < 1 cm received ART. None of these patients had LR and all survived 5 years NED. Of the 340 patients from our group, 294 (86.4%) survived five-years NED.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for benign PTB is excellent and can be cured with surgery alone. A sufficient margin would be 0.1 cm (data from the literature) or 0.2-0.4 cm (our study). We recommend application of ART for such patients but the role of ART in patients with borderline and malignant PTB treated with BCS and with surgical margin < 1 cm remains uncertain.

A rare case of a giant ulcerated benign phyllode tumor

Phyllode tumors are rare fibroepithelial neoplasms divided into three histological grades according to their potential for malignancy. Low grade tumors are usually smaller with a slower evolution. We present here the case of a 40 year old women presenting an augmentation over one month of the volume of her right breast with an ulcerated mass measuring 25cm. The clinical characteristics were in favor as a malignant tumor. The radiological findings were not contributive and the pathologic examinations of the biopsies were benign. A therapeutic and diagnostic mastectomy was thus performed and the final pathologic examination confirmed a benign phyllode tumor. These rare tumors are very deceitful for the radiologic investigations are poorly contributive. Likewise, the pathologic examination can be incorrect. Biopsies must be repeated and a mastectomy performed if any doubts remain.

Radiopathological characteristics and outcomes of phyllodes tumor of the breast in Malaysian women

Phyllodes tumor or cystosarcoma phyllodes is a rare fibroepithelial neoplasm which arises from the periductal stroma of the breast. They are classified as benign, borderline, and malignant based on the histologic features. However, all phyllodes tumor (PT) subtypes are regarded as having malignant potential and correct diagnosis is important for surgical management and optimal care. This study is a retrospective review of 76 women diagnosed as PT with highlights on the imaging characteristics, pathology, and surgical treatment over a 7-year period in a tertiary medical center of urban population in Malaysia. There were 45 benign, 16 borderline, and 15 malignant PT. The median age for benign PT was 43, borderline 48.5, and malignant 42 years. The Malay ethnic group constitute 52.6% of cases, with 27.6% and 18.4% in Chinese and Indian ethnic groups, respectively. On mammograms, most benign (64.3%) and 33.3% of malignant PT showed high-density lesions. Calcifications were only seen in 2 benign PT. On ultrasound, 86% of benign PT was well-circumscribed whilst 50.0% of malignant PT had irregular outline. Cystic spaces were seen in 40.0% of malignant and 9.5% of benign PT. 80% of malignant PT lesions were heterogenous. Malignant PT demonstrates tumor heterogeneity, cystic spaces, and posterior acoustic enhancement on ultrasound. Half of malignant PT showed regular borders on ultrasound and appear well circumscribed on mammogram. A total of 46 patients had wide local excision or excision biopsy whilst 30 underwent mastectomy as primary treatment. The majority of the borderline and malignant PTs in our study (75.0% and 85.7% respectively) and only 5 out of the 43 (11.6%) benign PT underwent mastectomy. There were 2 tumor recurrence in the benign PT group and 1 case in the borderline and malignant group respectively.

Pediatric phyllodes tumors: A review of the National Cancer Data Base and adherence to NCCN guidelines for phyllodes tumor treatment

BACKGROUND

Phyllodes tumors are fibroepithelial breast lesions that are uncommon in women and rare among children. Due to scarcity, few large pediatric phyllodes tumor series exist. Current guidelines do not differentiate treatment recommendations between children and adults. We examined national guideline adherence for children and adults.

METHODS

We queried the NCDB (2004-2014) for female patients with phyllodes tumor histology, excluding patients with missing age or survival data. Patients were stratified by age (pediatric <21, adult ≥21), and compared based on patient characteristics, treatment patterns, and survival.

RESULTS

We identified 2787 cases of phyllodes tumor (2725 adult, 62 pediatric). Median age was 17years in children and 52years in adults. Margin positivity rates and median tumor size were similar between adults and children. Treatment was discordant with NCCN guidelines in 28.6% of adults and 14.5% of children through use of axillary staging, chemotherapy, adjuvant endocrine therapy, and radiotherapy. Five-year and ten-year survival were comparable between both groups.

CONCLUSION

Children and adults present with similarly sized phyllodes tumors. Trends reveal high margin positivity rates, and overtreatment with regional axillary staging and systemic adjuvant therapies. Particularly in children, treatment decisions must consider risks of adjuvant therapy including radiation-related second primary cancers, given uncertain benefit.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Comparative Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Prognostic factors in breast phyllodes tumors: a nomogram based on a retrospective cohort study of 404 patients

The aim of this study was to explore the independent prognostic factors related to postoperative recurrence-free survival (RFS) in patients with breast phyllodes tumors (PTBs). A retrospective analysis was conducted in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. According to histological type, patients with benign PTBs were classified as a low-risk group, while borderline and malignant PTBs were classified as a high-risk group. The Cox regression model was adopted to identify factors affecting postoperative RFS in the two groups, and a nomogram was generated to predict recurrence-free survival at 1, 3, and 5 years. Among the 404 patients, 168 (41.6%) patients had benign PTB, 184 (45.5%) had borderline PTB, and 52 (12.9%) had malignant PTB. Fifty-five patients experienced postoperative local recurrence, including six benign cases, 26 borderline cases, and 22 malignant cases; the three histological types of PTB had local recurrence rates of 3.6%, 14.1%, and 42.3%, respectively. Stromal cell atypia was an independent prognostic factor for RFS in the low-risk group, while the surgical approach and tumor border were independent prognostic factors for RFS in the high-risk group, and patients receiving simple excision with an infiltrative tumor border had a higher recurrence rate. A nomogram developed based on clinicopathologic features and surgical approaches could predict recurrence-free survival at 1, 3, and 5 years. For high-risk patients, this predictive nomogram based on tumor border, tumor residue, mitotic activity, degree of stromal cell hyperplasia, and atypia can be applied for patient counseling and clinical management. The efficacy of adjuvant radiotherapy remains uncertain.

Phyllodes tumors of the breast in 2 sisters: Case report and review of literature

RATIONALE

Phyllodes tumors (PT) of the breast are rare neoplasm originating from fibroepithelial component. To our knowledge, our report is the first reported case of PT in 2 sisters.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We presented 2 cases of PT of the breast involving in 2 sisters. On physical examination of the younger sister, a firm mass measuring approximately 3 cm in diameter was identified in upper inner quadrant of the right breast. Physical examination of the elder sister revealed a 3 cm lump in upper outer quadrant of the left breast.

DIAGNOSES

Histopathology of the younger sister revealed a malignant PT. The elder sister was diagnosed with borderline PT.

INTERVENTIONS

The younger sister with malignant PT underwent right mastectomy. The elder sister with borderline PT was scheduled for wide resection of the mass in the left breast.

OUTCOMES

After a follow-up of 23 months, no local or distant recurrence was observed.

LESSONS

Our cases indicate that genetic factor may contribute to the risk of PT of the breast. Markers such as p53 and Ki-67 may have some correlation with PT malignancy.

Phyllodes tumors with and without fibroadenoma-like areas display distinct genomic features and may evolve through distinct pathways

Breast fibroepithelial lesions (fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumors) are underpinned by recurrent MED12 exon 2 mutations, which are more common in fibroadenomas and benign phyllodes tumors. TERT promoter hotspot mutations have been documented in phyllodes tumors, and found to be more frequent in borderline and malignant lesions. Several lines of evidence suggest that a subset of phyllodes tumors might arise from fibroadenomas. Here we sought to investigate the genetic differences between phyllodes tumors with fibroadenoma-like areas vs. those without. We retrieved data for 16 borderline/ malignant phyllodes tumors, including seven phyllodes tumors with fibroadenoma-like areas and nine phyllodes tumors without fibroadenoma-like areas, which had been previously subjected to targeted capture massively parallel sequencing. Whilst MED12 exon 2 mutations were significantly more frequent in tumors with fibroadenoma-like areas (71 vs. 11%), an enrichment in genetic alterations targeting bona fide cancer genes was found in those without fibroadenoma-like areas, in particular in EGFR mutations and amplifications (78 vs. 14%). No significant difference in the frequency of TERT genetic alterations was observed (71% in cases with fibroadenoma-like areas vs 56% in those without fibroadenoma-like areas). Our data suggest that the development of phyllodes tumors might follow two different evolutionary pathways: a MED12-mutant pathway that involves the progression from a fibroadenoma to a malignant phyllodes tumor; and a MED12-wild-type pathway, where malignant phyllodes tumors arise de novo through the acquisition of genetic alterations targeting cancer genes. Additional studies are warranted to confirm our observations and define whether the outcome differs between both pathways.

Mammary phyllodes tumor with six episodes of a relapse: a case report

BACKGROUND

Phyllodes tumor is a rare breast mass. Most phyllodes tumors are benign, but occasionally some show malignancy. Even if the tumors are benign, they can easily show recurrence.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 48-year-old Asian woman, who had previously undergone a tumorectomy of her left breast 12 years before, with a pathological diagnosis of fibroadenoma. Five years after the initial tumorectomy, the patient presented with an abnormally enlarged left breast. A biopsy determined the growth to be a phyllodes tumor; subsequently, a partial mastectomy was conducted. However, the patient's left breast showed rapid enlargement in the next 5 months. The treating physicians suspected a relapse and subsequently consulted with our hospital. The breast mass was resected at our institution. After this surgery, the patient had repeated episodes of relapse and underwent four additional operations. Since then, the patient has not had any additional relapse so far.

CONCLUSIONS

We present a case of a phyllodes tumor with multiple episodes of relapse. Although phyllodes tumors commonly show relapse, this case was unique because of the number of episodes of relapse. This case highlights the need to carry out tumorectomy with adequate margins with subsequent careful observation to check for relapse.

Malignant Phyllodes Tumor Presenting in Bone, Brain, Lungs, and Lymph Nodes

Introduction

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are rare fibroepithelial tumors of the breast which are classified as benign, borderline, or malignant. Malignant PTs account for <1% of malignant breast tumors, and borderline tumors have potential to progress to malignant tumors. Metastatic recurrences are most commonly documented in bone and lungs. We report an extremely rare presentation of recurrent malignant PTs involving the brain, lung, lymph nodes, and bone.

Case

A 66-year-old female presented with a large breast mass. Biopsy identified malignant PT, treated by mastectomy. One year later she presented with acute back pain; imaging showed pathological L4 spinal compression fracture. Core biopsy confirmed PT. Staging identified additional metastases in the lymph nodes, brain, and lung.

Discussion

PTs are rare and fast-growing tumors that originate from periductal stromal tissues and are composed of both epithelial and stromal components. Histologically, they are classified as benign, borderline, or malignant. The prognosis of the malignant type is poorly defined, with local recurrence occurring in 10–40% and metastases in 10%. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are generally ineffective in this tumor type. The most common metastatic sites for malignant cases are the lung and bones, but in rare instances, PTs may metastasize elsewhere.

Conclusion

We report a rare presentation of recurrent malignant PT presenting as pathological fracture of the lumbar spine with impingement on the spinal column, along with cerebellar, nodal, and pulmonary metastases. Only 1 similar case has been previously reported.

Phyllodes tumors of the breast: diagnosis, treatment and prognostic factors related to recurrence

Phyllodes tumors of the breast are rare tumor types that consist of 0.3-1.0% in all breast tumors. The naming and classification of breast phyllodes tumor have been debated for years. Based on the classification criteria modified by WHO in 2003, this review mainly introduced the clinicopathologic characteristics, pre-operational diagnosis and the treatment of breast phyllodes tumors, and also summarized the prognostic factors related to tumor recurrence.

Treatment of Patients with Distant Metastases from Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast

Background

Here, the treatment methods and results of patients with phyllodes tumor of the breast (PT) with distant metastases at a single institution are presented.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on a group of 295 patients with PT treated from 1952 to 2010.

Results

Distant metastases developed in 37 (12.5 %) patients; 3/160 (1.9 %) patients had benign PT, 6/36 (16.7 %) were considered borderline, and 28/99 (28.3 %) had malignant PT. Most frequently, the metastases were located in the lungs; 28 (75.7 %), bone 7 (18.9 %), brain 4 (10.8 %), and liver 2 (5.4 %). Metastases occurred on overage 21 months (2–57) after surgery. Patients with lung metastases were generally treated with monochemotherapy or polychemotherapy. In one patient Testosterone and in two patients resection of metastases combined with Doxorubicin were used. Patients with bones or brain metastases were treated with palliative radiotherapy only or combined with Doxorubicin. The mean survival (MS) from diagnosis of distant metastases (DM) was 7 months (2–17). The longest mean survival in patients with bones metastases was 11.8 months, the worst survival was for patients with brain metastases—2.8 months. Hormone therapy appeared to have low efficacy (MS: 2 months) as well as monochemotherapy (MS: 3–5 months). Improved MS was obtained using Doxorubicin (7 months) and Doxorubicin with Cisplatin, Cyclophosphamide, or Ifosfamide (9 months).

Conclusion

The prognosis of patients with DM from PT is poor. The role of surgery and irradiation of such patients is very limited. There appears to be no role for the use of hormone therapy. This study showed that polychemotherapy with Doxorubicin and Ifosfamide suggest that it might be more effective than once thought.

Massively parallel sequencing of phyllodes tumours of the breast reveals actionable mutations, and TERT promoter hotspot mutations and TERT gene amplification as likely drivers of progression

Phyllodes tumours (PTs) are breast fibroepithelial lesions that are graded based on histological criteria as benign, borderline or malignant. PTs may recur locally. Borderline PTs and malignant PTs may metastasize to distant sites. Breast fibroepithelial lesions, including PTs and fibroadenomas, are characterized by recurrent MED12 exon 2 somatic mutations. We sought to define the repertoire of somatic genetic alterations in PTs and whether these may assist in the differential diagnosis of these lesions. We collected 100 fibroadenomas, 40 benign PTs, 14 borderline PTs and 22 malignant PTs; six, six and 13 benign, borderline and malignant PTs, respectively, and their matched normal tissue, were subjected to targeted massively parallel sequencing (MPS) using the MSK-IMPACT sequencing assay. Recurrent MED12 mutations were found in 56% of PTs; in addition, mutations affecting cancer genes (eg TP53, RB1, SETD2 and EGFR) were exclusively detected in borderline and malignant PTs. We found a novel recurrent clonal hotspot mutation in the TERT promoter (-124 C>T) in 52% and TERT gene amplification in 4% of PTs. Laser capture microdissection revealed that these mutations were restricted to the mesenchymal component of PTs. Sequencing analysis of the entire cohort revealed that the frequency of TERT alterations increased from benign (18%) to borderline (57%) and to malignant PTs (68%; p < 0.01), and TERT alterations were associated with increased levels of TERT mRNA (p < 0.001). No TERT alterations were observed in fibroadenomas. An analysis of TERT promoter sequencing and gene amplification distinguished PTs from fibroadenomas with a sensitivity and a positive predictive value of 100% (CI 95.38-100%) and 100% (CI 85.86-100%), respectively, and a sensitivity and a negative predictive value of 39% (CI 28.65-51.36%) and 68% (CI 60.21-75.78%), respectively. Our results suggest that TERT alterations may drive the progression of PTs, and may assist in the differential diagnosis between PTs and fibroadenomas. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Benign and low-grade fibroepithelial neoplasms of the breast have low recurrence rate after positive surgical margins

Breast phyllodes tumors are uncommon fibroepithelial neoplasms with a range of histologic features. Surgical excision is the primary management, but the need for excision to negative margins in benign and borderline phyllodes tumors is unclear. Here, we review the surgical management patterns and outcomes of 90 patients with benign and low-grade fibroepithelial lesions of the breast treated at our institution, including 19 borderline phyllodes tumors, 52 benign phyllodes tumors, and 19 representative neoplasms with overlapping features of fibroadenoma and benign phyllodes tumors, which were classified as 'fibroadenomas with phyllodal features'. In total, 52 (58%) had positive surgical margins on first excision, and of these 17 (33%) underwent re-excision to achieve negative margins. Residual tumor was identified in three (18%) re-excisions. Patients with fibroadenoma with phyllodal features were more likely to have a positive surgical margin than with benign phyllodes tumors or borderline phyllodes tumors (89 vs 49%, P=0.0015), and were less likely to undergo re-excision for positive margins (12 vs 43%, P=0.031). In total, there were three recurrences (3%), with one per fibroadenoma with phyllodal features, benign phyllodes tumor, and borderline phyllodes tumor. There was no statistically significant difference in recurrence rates between patients with positive or negative margins, or between patients with positive margin with or without re-excision. The extent of the positive margin did not predict recurrence. In conclusion, the recurrence rate of benign and low-grade fibroepithelial lesions is low and not associated with the original margin status. Patients with fibroadenomas with phyllodal features, benign phyllodes tumors, or selected borderline phyllodes tumors and positive margins on initial excision may be managed conservatively, with close follow-up and timely re-excision of any potential recurrence.

Phyllodes tumours of the breast: a consensus review

Phyllodes tumours constitute an uncommon but complex group of mammary fibroepithelial lesions. Accurate and reproducible grading of these tumours has long been challenging, owing to the need to assess multiple stratified histological parameters, which may be weighted differently by individual pathologists. Distinction of benign phyllodes tumours from cellular fibroadenomas is fraught with difficulty, due to overlapping microscopic features. Similarly, separation of the malignant phyllodes tumour from spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma and primary breast sarcoma can be problematic. Phyllodes tumours are treated by surgical excision. However, there is no consensus on the definition of an appropriate surgical margin to ensure completeness of excision and reduction of recurrence risk. Interpretive subjectivity, overlapping histological diagnostic criteria, suboptimal correlation between histological classification and clinical behaviour and the lack of robust molecular predictors of outcome make further investigation of the pathogenesis of these fascinating tumours a matter of active research. This review consolidates the current understanding of their pathobiology and clinical behaviour, and includes proposals for a rational approach to the classification and management of phyllodes tumours.

MED12 somatic mutations in fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumours of the breast

AIMS

Somatic mutations in exon 2 of the mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) gene have been identified in 60% of breast fibroadenomas (FAs). The aim of this study was to define whether phyllodes tumours (PTs) would harbour MED12 somatic mutations in a way akin to FAs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A collection of 73 fibroepithelial tumours (including 26 FAs, 25 benign PTs, nine borderline PTs and 13 malignant PTs) from 64 patients was retrieved from the authors' institution. Sections from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks were microdissected to ensure an enrichment in neoplastic stromal elements of >70%. DNA samples extracted from tumour and matched normal tissues were subjected to Sanger sequencing of exon 2 of the MED12 gene. MED12 exon 2 somatic mutations, including 28 somatic single nucleotide variants and 19 insertions and deletions, were found in 65%, 88%, 78% and 8% of FAs, benign PTs, borderline PTs and malignant PTs, respectively. Malignant PTs harboured MED12 exon 2 somatic mutations significantly less frequently than FAs, benign and borderline PTs.

CONCLUSIONS

Although MED12 exon 2 somatic mutations probably constitute the driver genetic event of most FAs, benign and borderline PTs, our results suggest that the majority of malignant PTs may be driven by other genetic/epigenetic alterations.

Phyllodes tumour among participants in screening mammography

BACKGROUND

In screening, the distinction between phyllodes tumour (PT) and fibroadenoma (FA) is imprecise, often needing surgery.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study and literature review, we wished to (i) present our experience with PT diagnosed among screening participants; (ii) identify discriminating features between FA and PT; (iii) assess the efficacy of cancer screening in identifying PT; and (iv) for women diagnosed with PT, determine appropriate breast cancer screening schedules.

RESULTS

During a 23.7 years time frame, PT was diagnosed in 30 women, reflecting an incidence of 2.53 per 100 000 women screened. Only 22 (73.3%) PT were found by screening. The remaining eight (26.7%) presented as interval tumours. Thirteen PT were benign, eight borderline and nine malignant. Six of eight (75%) malignant PT were symptomatic. A circumscribed mass, mean diameter 34.7 mm, was the dominant finding. Enlargement (14 imaging, seven clinical) was documented in 21 (70%) cases. Diagnostic open biopsy was required in 67.9%. Follow-up of at least 12 months is available in 20 cases. Only two developed recurrence. One woman died of metastatic PT and one PT recurred locally.

CONCLUSION

The extreme rarity of PT in screening contrasts with the prevalence of FAs. The peak incidence of PT in women is 40-50, whereas screening is targeted at women 50-74. Two yearly screening mammography is not designed to detect PT reliably. In particular, malignant PT grows rapidly and becomes symptomatic. Women with benign PT can continue with screening. Women with borderline and malignant PT should resume screening after 5 years of specialist surveillance.

Aggressive malignant phyllodes tumor

•

Phyllodes tumor of breast could be either benign or malignant variety and they can grow into very large sizes and distort the breast.

•

WHO classifies tumors into benign, borderline and malignant and it is the best methods to predict the local recurrence, distant metastasis or bath after resection.

•

Borderline and malignant disease should have close follow up; as some of these tumors can rapidly change and metastasize.

Introduction

Originally described in 1838 by Muller, phyllodes tumor is a rare fibroepithelial neoplasm which represents roughly 0.3–0.9% of all breast cancers. Phyllodes tumor are divided into benign, borderline and malignant histologic categories. Malignant phyllodes tumor represent anywhere from 10–30% of all phyllodes tumors. This group has both the potential to recur locally and metastasize, however not all malignant phyllodes behave this way. The challenge lays in predicting which tumor will recur locally or metastasize. Distinguishing this subset of malignant phyllodes tumor is paramount.

Presentation of case

We present a case of malignant phyllodes which presented with metastatic disease. What is fascinating about this case is not only the initial presentation but also the aggressiveness of this variation of phyllodes tumor. The patient initially presented with a large mass which encompassed her whole right breast. On surgical pathology the mass measured roughly 31 cm in diameter and weighed over 10 kg. Within 5 weeks from surgery the patient had suffered brain metastases and also 6 local recurrent tumors. The patient passed roughly 11 weeks after her first visit to our office.

Conclusion

Despite biopsy proven malignant phyllodes tumor, it was near impossible to predict such a rapid course of disease progression in our patient. Our case illustrates the unpredictable nature of this disease in general and it possibly sheds light on a variant of the disease which had undergone an aggressive transformation.

Malignant phyllodes tumor of the breast: treatment and prognosis

Surgery remains the mainstay of the treatment in patients with malignant phyllodes tumor of the breast (MPTB); however, the extent of surgery (breast conserving surgery [BCS] versus mastectomy) and the role of adjuvant radiotherapy have been controversial. We report a single institution's experience with MPTB. We discuss controversial therapeutic aspects of this rare tumor. Seventy patients with MPTB treated primarily with surgery were evaluated. The mean age was 50 years (21-76), and the mean size of the tumor was 6 cm. Thirty-four (48.6%) patients were treated with total mastectomy, and 36 (51.4%) were treated with BCS (lumpectomy or wide local excision). Microscopic surgical margins were free of tumor in all cases. In 64 (91.4%) patients, margins were ≥1 cm. Remaining 6 (8.6%) patients treated with BCS margins were <1 cm and subsequently radiotherapy was performed. Among 70 patients, 58 (82.9%) had no evidence of disease (NED) after 5 years. The extent of surgery was not significantly related to the 5-year NED survival rates (82.4% in patients who underwent mastectomy and 83.3% in patients who underwent BCS only or BCS with adjuvant irradiation). The 5-year NED survival rates in BCS (tumor-free margin ≥1 cm) and BCS with irradiation (tumor-free margin <1 cm) groups were identical (83.3%). Our data support the potential use of BCS in patients with MPTB. Mastectomy is indicated only if tumor-free margins cannot be obtained by BCS. Adjuvant radiotherapy may be considered if tumor-free margins are <1 cm.

Analysis of patients with phyllodes tumor of the breast

OBJECTIVE

The diagnosis and management of phyllodes tumors is challenging due to its low incidence. The treatment of these tumors is surgery, however the extent of surgery, the application of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy are still controversial. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate patients who were treated with a diagnosis of phyllodes tumor of the breast in our clinic.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients who were treated with a diagnosis of phyllodes tumor of the breast between June 2011 and June 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographic characteristics (age, gender), menopausal status, symptoms, radiologic and surgical methods used for diagnosis and treatment, histopathologic features of the tumor and type of adjuvant therapy were evaluated. Patients were grouped as benign or borderline/malignant according to histopathological diagnosis. Patients in these groups were compared in terms of age, menopausal status, tumor size and the number of mitosis within the tumor.

RESULTS

The median age was 26 years (17-59), and 30 patients were female. The surgical treatment of choice was wide local excision with tumor-free surgical margins in 29 patients and mastectomy in one patient. Histopathological diagnosis after surgery was benign in 21 patients (70%), borderline in 6 patients (20%) and malignant phyllodes tumor in 3 patients (10%). Patients with borderline and malignant phyllodes tumors were significantly older (p=0.002) and had higher mitotic counts (p<0.0001). There was no significant relationship between histopathologic subtypes of phyllodes tumors and menopausal status (p=0.06) or tumor size (p=0.1).

CONCLUSION

Surgery is the treatment of choice for phyllodes tumors, and obtaining tumor-free margins is important. Since phyllodes tumors might recur as borderline/malignant tumors, local control with surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy should be provided when required. In this way, distant metastases and death that may arise due to possible malignant recurrences might be avoided.

Changes in the clinical characteristics, treatment options, and therapy outcomes in patients with phyllodes tumor of the breast during 55 years of experience

Background

Data from the literature suggests that the clinical picture of phyllodes tumor (PT) of the breast, as well as treatment options and perhaps therapy outcomes, have significantly changed. The aim of this work was to review these changes by analysis of consecutive patients with PT over a 55-year period at a single institution.

Material/Methods

From 1952 to 2007, 280 women with PT were treated surgically at the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Institute of Oncology, Cancer Center in Cracow. Age, size of breast tumor, microscopic type, extent of surgery, and therapy outcomes were compared between 2 groups: 190 patients treated from 1952 to 1991 vs 90 patients treated from 1992 to 2007.

Results

The results show that the 1992–2007 group compared to the 1952–1991 included more patients <50 years of age, with tumor <5 cm in diameter, undergoing breast-conserving therapy, as well as no evidence of disease at 5-year survival had increased and this change was statistically significant. In addition, malignant PT cases had decreased in frequency.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that patients with PT are increasingly younger, the breast tumors at diagnosis are smaller, malignant PT is becoming less frequent, and BCT is now the treatment of choice. Most importantly, the general treatment outcomes are significantly better.

A young woman with a giant breast fibrosarcoma: a case report

We report a case of a 15-year-old female, no family history of huge fibrosarcoma. Computed tomography (CT) showed that there was no clearance between the lump and pectoralis major and that there were pathological fractures in the third and fourth ribs. Fine-needle aspiration result suggested that it might be a phyllodes tumor of the breast. According to the postoperative pathologic and immunohistochemical results, the final diagnosis was breast fibrosarcoma.

Effects of age and diabetes mellitus on clinical outcomes in patients with peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis is the most common complication and the leading cause of technique failure for patients on PD therapy. The aim of this study was to review the episodes and outcomes of PD-related peritonitis, with special reference to the effects of age and diabetes status.

METHODS

The study comprised 204 consecutive peritonitis episodes between January 2001 and June 2011 from our registry database. Factors associated with treatment failure and mortality were analyzed with multi-variable logistic regression modeling.

RESULTS

The overall peritonitis rate was one episode per 65 patient-months or 0.187 episodes/patient-year. Older patients had lower probability of remaining free of peritonitis (log rank, p<0.001). Elderly patients and diabetic subjects had a higher risk of peritonitis-related dropout. Age (odds ratio [OR], 1.37; p=0.041), diabetes mellitus (OR, 3.64; p=0.005), and gram-negative peritonitis (OR, 3.55; p=0.011) were independent determinants of catheter removal. Age (OR, 1.93; p=0.026) and diabetes (OR, 5.98; p=0.015) were the only predictors of death from peritonitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Old age and diabetes mellitus are two major risk factors for adverse outcomes of PD-related peritonitis. Although they are not contraindications to PD, our results suggest that these patients need meticulous care when peritonitis occurs.