Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast
Phyllodes tumors are relatively uncommon breast lesions that can be either benign or malignant, although the majority are noncancerous. Unlike other breast masses, which typically form in the glandular tissues, phyllodes tumors form in the fibrous connective tissues that hold the breast’s fatty and glandular tissues in place. For this reason, phyllodes tumors are classified as sarcomas.
Tampa General Hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic services for phyllodes tumors and other breast conditions through our highly acclaimed Breast Cancer Center. Accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), TGH is proud to have earned the prestigious “High Performing in Cancer” designation from U.S. News & World Report for 2023-24.
What Causes Phyllodes Tumors?
Scientists do not yet know what causes phyllodes tumors. The results of studies performed to date indicate that women who have a rare inherited cancer syndrome known as Li-Fraumeni syndrome are at heightened risk.
Phyllodes Tumor Symptoms
Phyllodes tumors often grow quickly and can reach 3 centimeters in diameter within just a few weeks. Some grow much bigger.
A large phyllodes tumor may create a smooth, hard and well-defined breast lump that can be felt. If the tumor stretches the skin, the skin may feel tender and appear shiny or translucent. For unknown reasons, phyllodes tumors develop more often in the left breast than the right breast.
A cancerous phyllodes tumor may cause additional symptoms, such as:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Bone pain (if the cancer has spread to the bones)
- Shortness of breath (if the cancer has spread to the lungs)
How Are Phyllodes Tumors Diagnosed?
If a phyllodes tumor is suspected based on the symptoms or the results of a clinical breast exam or imaging scan, a physician will typically order a core needle biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the tumor is cancerous. In some cases, an excisional biopsy must be performed to remove the tumor in its entirety to ensure a conclusive diagnosis. When viewed under a microscope, phyllodes tumor cells exhibit a distinctive leaf-like pattern for which the tumors are named (“phyllon” is the Greek word for “leaf”).
Phyllodes Tumor Treatment
Most physicians recommend removing a phyllodes tumor—even if it is benign—to prevent the tumor from growing, causing pain and possibly transforming into cancer in the future. Usually, the preferred procedure is a lumpectomy, which involves removing the entire tumor along with a slim margin of surrounding healthy tissue. The margin will be examined under a microscope to confirm that no tumor cells are present. A “clean margin” can help prevent a recurrence.
Phyllodes tumors do not spread as easily as other types of cancer. Typically, they do not enter the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Therefore, systemic treatments such as chemotherapy are generally unnecessary.
Receive World-Class Care at TGH
Phyllodes tumors are rare, and cancerous phyllodes tumors are even rarer. Therefore, it is important to seek care at a high-volume cancer center where the physicians have acquired extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of precancerous and cancerous breast conditions, including those that are uncommon or challenging to treat.
TGH’s Breast Cancer Center is one of the highest-volume programs of its kind in Florida, and our team has the specialized expertise you need. If would like to request a consultation, contact us at (813) 844-4554.