Malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast

BACKGROUND: Metastases to the breast from extramammary primary tumors are uncommon. Malignant melanoma is one of the most common neoplasms to secondarily involve the mammary parenchyma. METHODS: Seven cases of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration biopsy are presented. RESULTS: The cytologic findings of malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast usually are straightforward on aspiration cytology. However, knowledge of a prior history of melanoma is crucial to make an accurate diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Malignant melanoma metastatic to the breast can be diagnosed reliably by fine-needle aspiration cytology, thus avoiding radical and unnecessary surgery.