Long-term survival of the Sister Mary Joseph nodule originating from breast cancer: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND A Sister Mary Joseph nodule (SMJN) is an uncommon cutaneous metastasis found in the umbilicus, indicating an advanced malignancy. SMJNs typically originate from intra-abdominal sources, rarely from breast cancer. Diagnosis suggests a poor prognosis with a median survival of approximately 8 mo after detection. Managing patients with SMJNs is challenging, as most receive limited palliative care only. The optimal strategy for long-term survival of these patients remains unclear. CASE SUMMARY A 58-year-old female, previously diagnosed with right breast cancer 17 years ago and underwent breast-conserving surgery, adjuvant radiotherapy, and endocrine therapy, presented with a 2-cm umbilical nodule. Thirteen years previously, metastases were detected in the right supraclavicular, infraclavicular, hilar, and mediastinal lymph nodes. An umbilical nodule emerged four years before the date of presentation, confirmed as a skin metastasis of primary breast cancer upon excisional biopsy. Despite initial removal, the nodule recurred and grew, leading to her referral to our hospital. The patient underwent extensive excision of the umbilical tumor and immediate abdominal wall reconstruction. Endocrine therapy was continued postoperatively. Five years later, no local recurrence was observed, and the patient continued to work full-time, achieving over 9 years of survival following SMJN diagnosis. CONCLUSION This case study aimed to identify the optimal strategy for achieving extended survival outcomes in patients with SMJN through comprehensive treatment. We presented a case of the longest survival in a patient after undergoing a multidisciplinary treatment regimen. Our findings underscore the significance of adopting a multimodal treatment approach comprising timely and wide excision along with adjunctive therapy. This approach can control the disease, prolong survival, and improve the quality of life in patients with SMJN.