CASE REPORT: A RARE CASE OF BREAST METASTASIS FROM MUCINOUS RECTAL CARCINOMA

Introduction: There are few cases of breast metastases from colorectal cancer (CRC). The most common sites of metastases of colorectal cancer are the liver, lungs and the peritoneum. Breast metastases from colorectal cancers are very rare and metastases to distant sites signify a very poor prognosis.

We report a case of a chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment naive patient who presented with clinical features suggestive of colorectal cancer, a groin mass and a breast mass. Biopsy and histopathological assessment of the rectal and breast mass samples showed rectal mucinous carcinoma and metastatic mucinous carcinoma respectively. Staging investigations done showed peritoneal deposits, inguinal and paraaortic lymph nodes involvement, but no metastasis to the lungs and liver. She however passed away approximately two months after presentation.

The awareness of the possibility of rectal cancer to metastasize to the breast is important, as this can be missed due to its location. A good history, physical examination, histology and immunohistochemistry are very vital for appropriate diagnosis and by extension treatment of these patients.