Cavernous hemangioma of the breast: a case report

Abstract

Background: Hemangioma is a common benign tumor resulting from abnormal blood vessel growth but is infrequent in the breast. Preoperatively, it is challenging to diagnose breast hemangioma using clinical and conventional imaging modalities because of their lack of pathognomonic characteristics. An excisional biopsy can be used for tissue diagnosis in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. Case presentation: The authors report a case of cavernous hemangioma of the breast in a 15-year-old adolescent female complaining of a rapidly enlarging firm and mobile lump in the right breast. Breast ultrasonography revealed a well-circumscribed, encapsulated, heteroechoic mass with smooth margins in the retroareolar region of the right breast. Subsequent excision of the lump revealed features of a cavernous hemangioma, and the follow-up was uneventful. Discussion: Cavernous hemangioma of the breast is a rare entity, and its diagnosis poses a significant challenge for clinicians, as the lump may not be noticeable. The clinical diagnosis is challenging; therefore, imaging is required. Breast ultrasonography typically shows a hypoechoic lobulated mass with clear borders, although isoechoic and hyperechoic appearances are also possible. Breast mammography revealed a well-defined mass with areas of calcification. Surgical excision is often necessary when there is a discordance between imaging and histopathological findings, lesions greater than 2 cm, and atypical/malignant features. Conclusion: Breast hemangiomas are rare benign tumors with nonspecific imaging features that require tissue sampling for diagnosis. Clinicians should be familiar with these characteristics to ensure proper management.