Navigating the diagnostic pitfalls of cystic and solid breast masses: a comparative case report of metaplastic carcinoma and benign lesions

Background Cystic and solid masses (CSMs) present a significant diagnostic challenge due to their heterogeneous internal architecture and a relatively high malignancy rate (23%–31%). Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC), an aggressive and rare subtype of triple-negative breast cancer, often presents as a CSM, frequently leading to clinical misinterpretation and delayed treatment. Case description We report two middle-aged women presenting with rapidly enlarging, tender CSMs. Both cases exhibited s