Metaplastic breast carcinoma

Metaplastic breast carcinoma, a rare entity, accounts for only about 0.02% of all breast carcinomas. It involves the transformation of mammary neoplasms into osteoid and chondroid substances. Because of the relatively small patient population and the limited number of controlled studies, there is confusion regarding its classification and staging. Its histogenesis is unknown. The authors describe a 65-year-old woman with findings consistent with metaplastic breast carcinoma. Theories as to etiology and prognosis as well as treatment are discussed.

Computed tomography in the diagnosis and management of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome

Popliteal artery entrapment by an anomalous band of the gastrocnemius muscle is an uncommon but apparently under-diagnosed syndrome. Historically, arteriography has been used to diagnose this condition, but the standard method may not demonstrate arterial deviation or differentiate entrapment from other conditions that affect the popliteal artery, such as cystic adventitial disease and thrombosed popliteal artery aneurysms. Computed tomography has become increasingly useful to vascular surgeons in elucidating arterial disorders of the popliteal fossa. This case demonstrates the usefulness of computed tomography evaluation in the diagnosis and management of popliteal artery entrapment.

Diverticular disease in young adults

Acute diverticulitis of the colon should be considered in the differential diagnosis in young adult (younger than 40 years) patients with pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen. Among young adults, men are afflicted more commonly than women and the disease runs a more virulent course. Complications are commonly encountered, and the key to diagnosis is a high index of suspicion. Barium enema examination without bowel preparation is useful and safe in this age group. In patients with acute diverticulitis with perforation and abscess, the most appropriate therapy is surgical, as demonstrated in the three cases reported here.