Publication:

Synchronous breast cancer and ipsilateral primary tuberculous lymphadenitis in axillary node

Tuberculous lymphadenitis is the commonest form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis with special affinity for cervical, mediastinal, and axillary lymph-nodes. Whilst both carcinoma of the breast and tuberculosis are common in countries with limited resources, the synchronous presence of breast cancer and ipsilateral tuberculous lymphadenitis, can lead to the overstaging of nodes leading to loss of opportunity for breast conservation. We present a case report in which a young woman presented with breast lump along with axillary nodes. However, after surgical resection, it was found that axillary nodal involvement was solely by tuberculosis. Keywords: Tuberculous lymphadenitis, Carcinoma breast, Overstaging, Axillary node