Breast Carcinoma and Tuberculosis in Axillary Lymph Nodes: A Case Report

Abstract

The coexistence of tuberculosis with axillary lymph node metastases in breast carcinoma is rare. Axillary lymph node metastasis is the most important factor in the staging of breast carcinoma, this can mimic or complicate the staging of a malignant disease. Dual organ pathology can lead to interpretation difficulties and inappropriate treatment of tuberculosis as well as breast carcinoma. We report an observation of infiltrating carcinoma of the non-specific type of the breast in woman aged 39, where tuberculosis was found in the axillary lymph nodes in addition to metastases. The possible and simultaneous occurrence of breast carcinoma and tuberculosis should be mentioned in order to avoid difficulties of interpretation and allow adequate management of axillary tuberculous lymphadenitis and breast carcinoma.