Delayed radiographic diagnosis of distal femoral metastases in breast cancer: A case report from Cocody University Teaching Hospital (Côte d’ivoire)

Abstract

Bone metastases represent a frequent complication of breast cancer, affecting more than one third of patients. Delayed investigation of persistent focal bone pain in a breast cancer patient can lead to serious consequences. We report a case of delayed radiographic diagnosis of distal femur metastases in a breast cancer patient, where the initial standard X-ray was normal. The diagnosis of bone metastasis was established by a second X-ray 11 months later, following disease progression. This case highlights the limitations of conventional radiography and highlights the importance of using PET-CT, MRI, or bone scintigraphy imaging modalities methods for early detection of metastatic lesions to guide therapeutic management.