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A Case Of Spontaneous Disappearance Of Secondary Cancerous Growths

Gould, A. P. 1897Breast cancer

Clinical Society. Transactions 30: 1897; 205-208

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Abstract

A case is reported in which, after three operations for breast cancer; the first operation removing the left breast, the second the axillary glands, and the third secondary lumps in the operation scars; secondary growths occurred in both breasts which were not removed. These growths along with secondary metastases in the lung and left femur disappeared without any further treatment.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

Single woman, m. C., a sick nurse, fortythree years of age

Clinical Characteristics

Numerous firm tubercles involving the skin and subcutaneous tissue, hard enlarged glands in axilla and above each clavicle, dyspnoea, cyanosis, cough, expectoration, blood in sputum, deformity in left thigh, pain in left thigh

Remission Characteristics

Disappearance of secondary growths in both breasts, lung and left femur without any further treatment

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

Three operations for breast cancer; the first operation removing the left breast, the second the axillary glands, and the third secondary lumps in the operation scars

Non-Clinical Treatment

Various drugs at different times in the hope of alleviating the various symptoms; chloroform, morphia, ether, pine oil inhalations, creosote, bromide of ammonia, bismuth and hydrocyanic acid, phenacetin, quinine, antipyrin, caffeine, salicylate of soda, iodide of potassium, iron and senega

Additional Notes

The patient was struck on the left breast with an umbrella in 1885. The primary growth was diagnosed as scirrhus mammae. The patient's general condition improved significantly over time. The last time she menstruated was at the end of January 1895.