METALLIC FOREIGN BODY IN THE BREAST

Abstract

We report a case of 57-years-old postmenopausal woman who was admitted to our clinic with right breast pain and swelling. She had no history of breast trauma or surgery. We observed a metallic foreign body in the ultrasonographic examination of the right breast which can not be seen in the direct X-ray graphy. Excisional biopsy was performed and a sewing needle was excised. Metallic foreign bodies within the breast are occasionally seen on mammograms and can mimic microcalcifi cations. The origin of these metallic particles can range from surgical clips, guide wire, gunshot wounds to sewing needle. The interest of this case is that in patients with breast pain or swelling, foreign bodies must be kept in mind if they have no history of trauma or breast surgery.

Keywords

• foreign body
• surgical clip
• guide wire
• sewing needle