Filariasis of the Breast in a Pregnant Woman Diagnosed by Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Despite increased immigration to the United States from endemic areas, the diagnosis of microfilariasis in this country remains infrequent. This disease may occasionally present as a breast mass, in the absence of other clinical findings. Case: We report an unusual case of Wuchereria bancrofti diagnosed in a pregnant woman by breast fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and discuss the clinical implications of filariasis in pregnancy. Conclusion: FNA is safe and reliable in pregnancy. Infants of mothers with breast filariasis should be monitored. © 1996, Wiley-Liss, Inc.