Unusual migration of implantable cardioverter defibrillator that clinically mimicking breast cancer: A case report

Abstract

Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillator migration to the breast are an extremely rare complication. The rarity of this phenomenon and its potential to mimic breast cancer emphasize the importance of reporting such cases. This study presents a rare migration of the device to the breast tissue that clinically mimicked breast cancer. This case underscores the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches and individualized management strategies when faced with such clinical challenges. A 59-year-old female patient complained bilateral breast masses for a 3-month duration. She is a known case of diabetes mellitus and hypertension. In 2015, she underwent Implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation for dilated cardiomyopathy and left ventricular failure. On examination, there was a skin dimpling in the left upper quadrant of her breast. The skin dimpling was clinically suspected to be breast cancer. Mammography showed an implantable cardiac device in the upper central part extending into the glandular parenchyma. A consultation with a cardiologist confirmed that the ICD was functioning properly, and as a result, no medical interventions were deemed required. Implantable cardioverter defibrillator migration to the breast is an extremely rare phenomenon and represent a complex clinical challenge that require a comprehensive diagnostic approach and individualized management strategies.

Keywords

• Pacemaker
• ICD
• Breast cancer
• Migration
• Cardiac arrhythmias