A Case of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma with Squamous Differentiation Presumed to Have Been Aggravated by Heat-Lamp Burn Over a Preexisting Breast Mass
- Author:
Chan Min CHUNG
1
;
Yu Chan LEE
;
Taek Jong LEE
;
Jae Hyun KIM
Author Information
- Publication Type:CASE REPORT
- From:Journal of Korean Burn Society 2025;28(2):43-47
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Cases of malignancy exacerbated by thermal injury are exceedingly rare, particularly in breast tissue. We report a unique case in which a preexisting, clinically occult breast lesion was subject to local uncontrolled heat lamp therapy, resulting in burn injury and apparent acceleration of tumor growth, later confirmed as invasive ductal carcinoma with squamous differentiation.Case: A 67-year-old female patient noted a right breast palpable nodule 1~2 months prior to presentation. Initial ultrasound measured 5.2×5.7 cm lesion and suggested malignancy; however, the patient deferred medical treatment and applied home heat-lamp therapy to the site, resulting in localized burn injury. After this, the lesion rapidly enlarged with budding and skin changes. Core needle biopsy yielded invasive ductal carcinoma with focal squamous differentiation. Imaging revealed right breast cancer with multiple enlarged lymph nodes on axilla. The patient underwent surgical excision and immediate reconstruction. Final pathology confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma with squamous differentiation, negative margins, with nodal metastasis. Postoperative adjuvant therapy was administered per tumor board decision.
Conclusion:Although a direct causal relationship cannot be proven, this case illustrates how unregulated thermal therapy can aggravate tumor progression and complicate oncologic presentation. Clinicians should be aware of alternative heat treatments and their potential to influence tumor behavior.
