What is phyllodes tumor?

Dr Subhan Iqbal ◉ and Assoc Prof Frank Gaillard ◉ ◈ et al. Phyllodes tumor, also known as cystosarcoma phyllodes, is a rare fibroepithelial tumor of the breast which has some resemblance to a fibroadenoma. It is typically a large, fast growing mass that forms from the periductal stroma of the breast.

What does a phyllodes tumor in the breast look like?

Phyllodes tumors can be hard to diagnose. They look very similar to other breast lumps, such as fibroadenomas. You might first feel the lump while doing a breast self-exam. If you do find a lump, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible, because these tumors grow so quickly.

How is a biopsy used to diagnose a phyllodes tumor?

A biopsy involves removing a piece of the tumor through a hollow needle or the whole tumor through a cut in your skin. To tell for sure if you have a phyllodes tumor or a fibroadenoma, your doctor will most likely have to remove the whole tumor. The tumor goes to a lab, where pathologists look at it under a microscope.

Can a phyllodes tumor return after surgery?

This treatment is an option if a cancerous tumor has spread to other parts of your body. Phyllodes tumors aren’t usually cancerous, but they can sometimes return after treatment. Usually, these tumors come back within a year or two after you have surgery. Cancerous tumors may come back sooner.