When it comes to breast health, we often hear about common conditions like breast cancer or fibroadenomas (non-cancerous lumps). But there are some rare tumors that can cause confusion and worry due to their unfamiliar names. One such tumor is the Phyllodes tumor.
Don't worry if you've never heard of it — you're not alone. Phyllodes tumors are rare, but knowing the basics can help you feel more informed and in control if you or a loved one ever comes across this diagnosis.
Let’s break it down together, in the simplest way possible.
What is a Phyllodes Tumor?
A Phyllodes tumor (pronounced fill-o-deez) is a rare growth found in the breast. The word "phyllodes" comes from the Greek word for “leaf-like,” because the tumor often has leaf-shaped structures when looked at under a microscope.
These tumors start in the connective tissue of the breast — the part that supports the glands and ducts. That’s why they’re sometimes called fibroepithelial tumors (a mix of fibrous and glandular tissue).
They can grow quite quickly and form a noticeable lump. Most women feel them as a painless, firm mass in the breast, which is why it's important not to ignore any new lumps you find during a self-exam.
Who Gets Phyllodes Tumors?
Phyllodes tumors are rare — they make up less than 1% of all breast tumors. They mostly affect women between the ages of 35 and 55, but can occur at any age.
While most cases are not inherited, women with a history of Li-Fraumeni syndrome (a rare genetic condition) may be at slightly higher risk.
Types of Phyllodes Tumors: Benign, Borderline & Malignant
Here’s where it gets a bit technical — but don't worry! We’ll explain it in a simple way.
Phyllodes tumors are classified into three types based on how the cells look under a microscope and how they behave:
1. Benign Phyllodes Tumor
Nature: Non-cancerous and the most common type.
Growth: May grow fast, but doesn't usually spread.
Treatment: Usually removed through surgery. Regular follow-ups are recommended to watch for recurrence.
Good to know: With clean surgical margins (no tumor left behind), chances of recurrence are low.
2. Borderline Phyllodes Tumor
Nature: Somewhere in-between — not clearly benign, but not fully cancerous either.
Growth: Can grow and come back after removal.
Treatment: Requires surgical removal with a wider margin to ensure all abnormal cells are taken out.
Good to know: Follow-ups are important as these can return and rarely spread.
Nature: Cancerous.
Growth: Can grow rapidly and may spread to other parts of the body (like the lungs or bones), though this is rare.
Treatment: Needs complete surgical removal. Sometimes followed by radiation therapy depending on the case.
3. Malignant Phyllodes Tumor
Good to know: Early diagnosis and proper treatment give better outcomes.
Diagnosis: How Are They Found?
Most phyllodes tumors are discovered as lumps during a routine breast exam, mammogram, or ultrasound.
To confirm whether it’s benign, borderline, or malignant, a biopsy is necessary. This means a small tissue sample is taken and studied under a microscope.
Treatment & Recovery
The main treatment for all types of Phyllodes tumors is surgery. The goal is to remove the tumor with a margin of healthy tissue to reduce the chances of it coming back.
Chemotherapy is generally not used, but radiation therapy might be recommended if the tumor is malignant or if the tumor recurs.
What Should You Do If Diagnosed?
1. Don’t panic – many phyllodes tumors are benign.
2. Get a second opinion if you’re unsure about the diagnosis.
3. Choose an experienced breast surgeon for treatment.
Follow up regularly as advised by your doctor.
Dr. Pragati Singhal
