Filariasis of the Breast in a Pregnant Woman Diagnosed by Fine-needle Aspiration Cytology: A Case Report

Abstract

Background:Despite increased immigration to the United States from endemic areas, the diagnosis of microfilariasis in this country remains infrequent. This disease may occasionally present as a breast mass, in the absence of other clinical findings.Case:We report an unusual case ofWuchereria bancroftidiagnosed in a pregnant woman by breast fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and discuss the clinical implications of filariasis in pregnancy.Conclusion:FNA is safe and reliable in pregnancy. Infants of mothers with breast filariasis should be monitored.