Ectopic primary ductal breast carcinoma of the vulva: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND: Ectopic breast tissue (EBT) is normally found along the rudimentary mammary line, which is located from the axilla to the inguinal region and disappears during embryogenesis. Up to 6% of females around the world suffer from EBT. EBT cancer is rare, with only a few reports in the literature. The diagnosis, and treatment of these rare cases can be very difficult and complex. CASE PRESENTATION: The authors report an interesting case of a 74-year-old female patient with a vulvar lump located on the mons pubis associated with ulceration, pain, and size increase. The histopathological study demonstrated an invasive ductal carcinoma grade 2 arising from EBT in the vulva. Within 4 months of follow-up, the patient’s condition was stable. CLINICAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Throughout this paper, the authors aim to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges since there are no current guidelines for treatment for such cases. Furthermore, this article describes this rare disease and includes surgical details, difficulties, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.