Rare Fibroadenoma of the Anal Region

Abstract

Introduction: Fibroadenomas are one of the most common benign breast lesions, however they have also been found on rare occasions elsewhere. These lesions usually arise from mammary-like glands (MLG) of the anogenital region which were first described by van der Putte. Methods: This case is about a 51-year-old female who presents with symptomatic hemorrhoids and a 5 cm nodular lesion external to the anal verge. These were removed and examined histo-pathologically. Results: Pathology revealed three hemorrhoidal specimens and the nodular lesion which was consistent with a fibroadenoma. Histologically, the nodular lesion demonstrated a benign process with ductal proliferation and estrogen receptors. Conclusions: Fibroadenomas in anatomic locations other than the breast are very uncommon. Other sites noted in prior case reports include gallbladder, prostate, arm, eyelid and anogenital region. Most of the anogenital lesions have been found on the vulva, with only six documented cases in the anal region, making this pathology exceedingly rare.