Mandibular metastasis of invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Metastasis of breast carcinoma to the oral cavity is an uncommon event, and mandibular involvement is even rarer. This case is notable owing to the delayed occurrence of mandibular metastasis 6 years after the primary diagnosis, highlighting its aggressive behavior, which resulted in a pathological mandibular fracture. Reporting such rare presentations can aid clinicians in identifying atypical metastatic patterns in breast cancer survivors.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 45 year-old Persian female with a history of invasive ductal breast carcinoma, diagnosed initially and treated 6 years earlier, presented with facial swelling and pain in the left lower jaw. She had been receiving bisphosphonate therapy for bone metastases. Clinical and radiographic evaluations revealed a radiolucent mandibular lesion with cortical bone perforation. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed metastasis from the primary breast cancer. Despite subsequent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the lesion progressed, resulting in a pathological mandibular fracture and further metastases to the lungs and liver.

CONCLUSION

This case underscores the importance of considering metastatic disease in diagnosing oral lesions in patients with a history of malignancy. Early recognition of atypical presentations such as mandibular metastasis may facilitate timely intervention, although prognosis remains poor in such advanced stages.