Paget disease of the breast

Paget disease of the breast- 

It is a rare form of breast cancer that begins in the nipple and extends to the areola. 

 

It is associated with underlying ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive carcinoma. 

 

The distinguishing feature of Paget disease from eczema is the involvement of the underlying ducts, as Paget disease is a malignancy, while eczema is a benign inflammatory condition.

 

Other features of paget disease include:

• Nipple ulceration

• Bloody nipple discharge

• Crusting and scaling of the nipple and areola

 

Immunohistochemistary markers: 

• HER2/neu positive/Overexpressed

• ER negative 

• PR negative 

 

Eczema

Paget disease of the breast

Typically bilateral

Typically unilateral 

Benign inflammatory condition-
confined to the skin epidermis.

Malignancy associated with underlying
DCIS (invasive carcinoma)

Improves with topical steroids

Persists despite topical treatment

 

NOTE: Paget disease of the breast is typically unilateral and associated with underlying malignancy, while eczema is usually bilateral and benign.

 

NOTE: Eczema is typically bilateral, involves pruritus, and does not have ductal involvement.

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