Invasive ductal carcinoma in a male patient: A case report

Male breast cancer is a rare condition, representing less than one per cent of all breast cancer cases. It is characterized by late presentation and a higher incidence of metastatic disease due to diagnostic delays. In Pakistan, male breast cancer tends to appear at a younger age than in Western countries. Risk factors include advancing age, hormonal imbalances, and family history. Despite the proven effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, its adoption in clinical practice is limited. This case involves a fifty-six-year-old Pakistani man presenting with a lump in his right breast. The physical examination showed a lump with axillary lymphadenopathy and skin changes. Laboratory tests were within normal ranges, and imaging revealed a highly suspicious lesion in the right breast. After a modified radical mastectomy, the biopsy confirmed grade two invasive ductal carcinoma with lymph node metastasis. The case highlights the need to consider male breast cancer in diagnoses. Male breast cancer differs from female breast cancer in its pathology, with a higher expression of the estrogen receptor-beta. The patient, who tested negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, received chemotherapy followed by surgery, underscoring the importance of personalized treatment. Male breast cancer is among the rarest cancers globally, requiring more research and awareness to improve management and outcomes. Dispelling the myth that breast cancer is a female-only disease is vital for early detection and treatment, which could enhance survival rates. • Male breast cancer is a rare condition, accounting for less than one percent of all breast cancer cases. • Late presentation and diagnostic delays contribute to metastatic disease in male breast cancer. • In our case report the patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery, emphasizing tailored management. • Dispelling the myth that breast cancer is female-only is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.