What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• GCT of Breast
• Mammary GCT
• Mammary Granular Cell Tumor

What is Granular Cell Tumor of Breast? (Definition/Background Information)

• Granular cell tumor (GCT) is a common benign tumor of the soft tissue, which can occur anywhere in the body. Some researchers note that granular cell tumor may be a tumor of neural origin (from a nerve)
• Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is a very uncommon condition. Generally, young, middle-aged, and older adults are affected; also, GCT of Breast is seen in higher numbers in females
• The cause of the condition is unknown, but the risk factors for Granular Cell Tumor of Breast may include gender (women are affected more than men)
• The signs and symptoms of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast may include a painless mass in the breast and inversion of the nipple. Small-sized tumors may be asymptomatic and show no signs and symptoms
• Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is treated through a surgical excision, per the healthcare provider’s recommendation. The prognosis is excellent with its complete removal, since it is a benign tumor. However, periodic checkups and screening mammograms are advised
• In some rare cases, the tumors are known to become malignant. In such cases, prompt treatment is advised. The prognosis of malignant tumors depend on a variety of factors, particularly the stage of the tumor

Who gets Granular Cell Tumor of Breast? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is a very rare type of tumor
• The age of presentation is between 17-75 years; the average presentation period is during the 5th decade
• Women are affected more than men
• All racial and ethnic groups are affected and no specific predilection is seen; some studies suggest that GCT of Breast is more common in African-American women

What are the Risk Factors for Granular Cell Tumor of Breast? (Predisposing Factors)

The specific risk factors for Granular Cell Tumor of Breast may include:

• Gender: Women have a higher risk for developing the condition than men

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is currently not clearly understood
• Certain gene mutations have also been reported in the tumors. Research is being performed to determine how these mutations contribute to the formation of the tumors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast?

Granular Cell Tumor of Breast resembles breast cancer in many ways including in its characteristic features and signs and symptoms. These may include:

• A solitary, benign lump in the breast tissue (parenchyma); typically, only one breast is affected
• The tumors are well-defined, firm, and painless; in some cases, the tumor may appear infiltrative
• The tumor size may be between 2-3 cm; it may display an infiltrating growth
• If GCTs occur just beneath the skin, they can cause inversion of the nipple or skin
• Some tumors may involve deeper breast tissues (the tumors are located deep inside the breast)
• Infrequently, the presence of multiple tumors at various locations in the body may be observed

How is Granular Cell Tumor of Breast Diagnosed?

Granular Cell Tumor of Breast may be diagnosed in the following manner:

• Complete physical examination with comprehensive medical and family history evaluation
• Breast exam to check for any lumps or unusual signs in the breasts
• Mammogram: A mammogram uses x-rays to provide images of the breast. These benign tumors are identified as a mammogram mass, which may or may not be associated with microcalcification. The mammography findings may raise enough suspicion to warrant a tissue biopsy
• Breast ultrasound scan: Using high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the breast, the type of tumor, whether fluid-filled cyst or solid mass type, may be identified
• Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the breast
• Breast biopsy:
  • A biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
  • Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
  • Sometimes, the pathologist may perform additional studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains and molecular studies to assist in the diagnosis

Biopsies are the only methods used to determine whether an abnormality is benign or cancerous. These are performed by inserting a needle into a breast mass and removing cells or tissues, for further examination. There are different types of biopsies:

• Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of breast mass: In this method, a very thin needle is used to remove a small amount of tissue. FNAB cannot help definitively diagnose Granular Cell Tumor of Breast. It only helps determine if the tumor is malignant or benign. This can help the healthcare provider discuss and plan the next steps (with respect to diagnosis and treatment)
• Core needle biopsy of breast mass: A wider needle is used to withdraw a small cylinder of tissue from an abnormal area of the breast
• Open tissue biopsy of breast mass: A surgical procedure used less often than needle biopsies, it is used to remove a part or all of a breast lump for analysis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast?

There may not be any significant complications of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast.

• However, the condition may cause emotional stress due to concerns of a malignancy
• Even though GCTs are benign, occasionally-to-extremely-rarely, there may be a malignant transformation to a malignant granular cell tumor. In such cases, metastasis to the lymph node may also be noted

How is Granular Cell Tumor of Breast Treated?

The following treatment methods for Granular Cell Tumor of Breast may be considered:

• A simple surgical excision and removal of the entire tumor is normally sufficient treatment and is the preferred choice. Due to a concern about the tumor turning into a malignancy, it is generally removed completely with clear margins. However, it is important to note that malignant GCTs are extremely rare
  • The surgical procedure performed is known as a breast lumpectomy. It is a surgical procedure to remove the breast lump, which may be done under a general anesthetic
  • During the surgery, a small incision is made in the skin of the breast and a hollow probe that is connected to a vacuum, inserted
  • The breast tissue is sucked through the probe, using vacuum, until the lump has been removed
• Follow-up care with frequent breast self-examinations and screening mammograms may be recommended by the healthcare provider

How can Granular Cell Tumor of Breast be Prevented?

The development of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is difficult to prevent. Currently, no specific preventive measures are available to avoid Mammary GCTs.

In general, however, it is important to be aware of certain risk factors for breast tumors, which include:

• The individual must regularly conduct breast self-exams, to ensure that no lumps are present
• Maintain a healthy body weight and exercise regularly
• Implement and follow a well-balanced diet; a high intake of fiber via fresh fruits and vegetables helps in a healthy lifestyle
• Avoid or completely stop smoking
• Drink alcohol in moderation; limit to one or (maximum) two drinks a day
• Limit combination hormone therapy used to treat symptoms of menopause. It is advised that individuals be aware of the potential benefits and risks of hormone therapy

What is the Prognosis of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Granular Cell Tumor of Breast is generally excellent on a surgical excision and removal of the tumor
• In rare cases, GCTs are known to undergo malignant transformations. In such cases, the prognosis depends on the stage of the tumor and promptness in administering treatment
• Periodic follow-up check-ups with screening may be required

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Granular Cell Tumor of Breast:

The following DoveMed website links are useful resources for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/womens-health/

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/