CASE REPORT: SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE BREAST

Introduction: Squamous cell carcinoma of the breast is a rare and aggressive type of cancer, accounting for less than 0.1% of all invasive breast cancers. This type of tumor is believed to arise from squamous metaplasia of ductal carcinoma cells or mammary duct epithelium. It is typically found in the skin and mucous membranes, rather than the usual glandular cells found in breast tissues.

Case Presentation: We report a case of a patient who presented with a palpable lump on her left breast. Surgical biopsy revealed a primary squamous carcinoma of the breast. Laboratory investigations done showed hypercalcemia. Further evaluation with bone scintigraphy and abdominopelvic CT scan and brain MRI showed metastases to the pelvic bone, brain and liver. She however passed away three weeks after while on admission.

Conclusion: Squamous cell carcinoma although rare, poses diagnostic challenges. Surgical treatment: paclitaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy regimens and adjuvant radiotherapy are effective, but it may be resistant to radiotherapy; and immunotherapy may prolong the survival of patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the breast.