Phylloides Tumour

Definition

Phylloides tumour is a rare, benign or malignant, breast tumour that accounts for approximately 0.5 to 1% of all breast tumours.

Classification

Phylloides tumours are classified into three types:

Benign

• Benign phylloides tumours are the most common type, accounting for approximately 70-80% of all phylloides tumours.
• They are usually well-circumscribed, solid, and often have a lobulated surface.
• Benign phylloides tumours tend to grow slowly and are rarely associated with metastasis.

Borderline

• Borderline phylloides tumours are also known as atypical phylloides tumours.
• They are characterized by a mix of benign and malignant features.
• Borderline phylloides tumours have a higher risk of recurrence and metastasis compared to benign phylloides tumours.

Malignant

• Malignant phylloides tumours are the least common type, accounting for approximately 1-2% of all phylloides tumours.
• They are highly aggressive and have a high risk of recurrence and metastasis.

Causes

The exact cause of phylloides tumours is unknown, but they are thought to arise from the stromal cells of the breast.

Clinical Features

• Phylloides tumours often present as a rapidly growing, painless lump in the breast.
• They can occur in both women and men, but are more common in women.
• Phylloides tumours can occur in any age group, but are most common in women between the ages of 40 and 60.

Investigations

• Imaging studies such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI can help diagnose phylloides tumours.
• Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing phylloides tumours.
• Histopathological examination of the biopsy sample can help determine the type and grade of the tumour.

Complications

• Phylloides tumours can cause skin ulceration, bleeding, and infection.
• Malignant phylloides tumours can metastasize to the lungs, liver, and other organs.

Management

• Surgical excision is the primary treatment for phylloides tumours.
• Wide excision or mastectomy may be necessary to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue.
• Radiation therapy may be used to treat malignant phylloides tumours.

Supportive Role of Homeopathy

• Homeopathy can be used as a supportive treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Homeopathic medicines such as Phytolacca, Calcarea, and Causticum may be used to treat phylloides tumours.

Homeopathic Medicines

• Phytolacca: For pain, swelling, and inflammation in the breast.
• Calcarea: For hard, non-tender lumps in the breast.
• Causticum: For pain, numbness, and tingling in the breast.