Adjuvant radiation therapy for adenoid cystic carcinoma of the breast: A case report and literature review

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the breast is an uncommon malignancy, accounting for only 0.1% to 1.0% of all breast cancers. Unlike more aggressive breast carcinomas, ACC is characterized by slow progression and a favorable prognosis. Early detection relies heavily on diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound. Standard treatment includes either lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy or mastectomy alone. Although rare, cases of late recurrence and metastasis have been documented, underscoring the need for long-term follow-up. This review explores the existing literature and presents the case of a 79-year-old woman diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma of the left breast, managed with lumpectomy and adjuvant radiation therapy.