Primary Breast Angiosarcoma: Utilisation of Pre-surgical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for Accurate Tumour Characterization and Planning - A Case Report and Literature Review

BACKGROUND: Primary breast angiosarcoma is a rare malignancy with non-specific clinical and radiological findings.

CASE REPORT: A 30-year-old lady presented with left breast pain and lumpiness for over one year. She has had several breast ultrasounds (US) and was treated for acute mastitis and abscess. Subsequently, in view of the rapid growth of the lump and worsening pain, she was re-investigated with US, elastography, digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and MRI. MRI raised the suspicion of angiosarcoma. The diagnosis was confirmed after biopsy and she underwent mastectomy.

DISCUSSION: Literature review on imaging findings of breast angiosarcoma, especially on MRI, is discussed. MRI features showed heterogeneous low signal intensity on T1 and high signal intensity on T2. Dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) features included either early enhancement with or without washout in the delayed phase, and some reported central areas of non-enhancement.

CONCLUSION: This case report emphasises on the importance of MRI in clinching the diagnosis of breast angiosarcoma, and hence, should be offered sooner to prevent diagnostic delay.