Management of Rare Breast Tumors and Male Breast Cancer

Purpose of Review: There is very little clinical trial data available to guide the management of uncommon breast cancers. This review draws on classic and recent retrospective data to synthesize a clearer understanding of the biology and behavior of these rare tumors. Recent Findings: Avoid disfiguring surgery in the pursuit of very wide margins for benign phyllodes tumors unless there are adverse histological features. Encapsulated papillary carcinoma is very good prognosis breast cancer; do not over treat. Metaplastic carcinoma is a basal type breast cancer that may be more responsive to “BRCA1-like” treatments. Complete excision of the capsule is curative for most implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphomas. Aromatase inhibitors are still controversial for male breast cancer; tamoxifen is standard. Summary: Available data are useful for guiding the treatment of rare breast cancers, but it must be recognized that there is still a great deal to be learned about each of these entities.