Hematologic Malignancies of the Breast

Blood-derived cancers, or hematologic malignancies, comprise three main categories: lymphomas, leukemias, and myelomas. Although rare, these cancers can affect breast tissue either primarily or secondarily. Due to nonspecific and variable imaging appearances, hematologic malignancies present diagnostic challenges for radiologists. Accurate diagnosis through imaging, blood work, and biopsy is essential for proper treatment, as unlike primary breast cancers, these malignancies typically do not require surgery and are commonly treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. This Pictorial Essay will assist radiologists in considering hematologic breast malignancies when evaluating patients undergoing breast imaging who have breast abnormalities or hematologic disorders.