Imaging findings in synchronous bilateral breast cancer: a case report

Abstract

Bilateral breast cancer is when malignant lesions are present in both breasts; synchronous bilateral breast cancer is rare. We report the case of a 74-year-old woman who sought medical attention due to a palpable lump in her left breast. A mammogram and ultrasound (US) were performed. The mammogram showed an irregular isodense mass with an indistinct margin in the right breast without other associated findings. Focal asymmetry was detected in the left breast. US showed an irregular hypoechoic mass with parallel orientation and an indistinct margin in the periareolar region of the right breast, BI-RADS category 5. US showed a hypoechoic irregular mass, not parallel orientation with an indistinct angular margin in the left breast. BI-RADS category 5. Lymph nodes with normal US features were found in both axillary regions. Core needle biopsies of both masses showed an invasive mucinous carcinoma in the right breast and a microinvasive ductal carcinoma in the left breast. This case report highlights the critical role of mammography and US in identifying and characterizing synchronous bilateral breast cancer. This case report is for educational purposes since distinguishing synchronous and metachronous bilateral breast cancer is critical for diagnosis and treatment.