Angiosarcoma after tylectomy and radiation therapy for carcinoma of the breast

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Angiosarcoma (AS) is an uncommon tumor that rarely develops after external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Thirty-six cases have been reported in the literature. METHODS: The authors present two additional cases. Each of these patients received breast-conserving treatment for breast carcinoma that consisted of tylectomy and EBRT. In each case, AS developed in the field of prior irradiation. RESULTS: Currently, seven cases of AS after radiation therapy for breast-conserving treatment of breast carcinoma have been reported. The average time interval between the administration of radiation therapy and the development of AS is 8.6 years. CONCLUSIONS: This complication is rare and should not influence the decision to offer breast-conserving therapy to patients. However, patients should be informed that AS may develop as a result of radiation therapy.