Prospects of Phyllodes

Recurrence of the tumor  

Phyllodes tumors are notorious for their tendency to return (‘recurrence’). Any recurrence of a benign phyllodes tumor will be on average after four years, a borderline tumor after three years, and a malignant tumor after 20 months, but the period can be shorter or longer. In most cases the gradation of the recurring tumor will be the same as that of the original tumor.   

Metastases  

There is a slight risk of metastasis in the case of malignant phyllodes tumors, which most commonly occur in the lungs. If a phyllodes tumor metastasizes, this takes place via the vascular system, not the lymph system. It can metastasize to other parts of the body, but this is very rare. Benign and borderline tumors do not metastasize. The treatment of metastases is complex and will differ from one patient to another.  

Follow-up checks  

Check-ups usually comprise regular mammograms and consultations, with an ultrasound scan if necessary. Lung X-rays may also be taken in the case of malignant tumors. The check-ups are most intensive for the first two to five years.

No follow-up is needed after the removal of a benign phyllodes tumor.   

After a borderline or malignant tumor has been removed, follow-up usually comprises regular mammograms and consultations, with an ultrasound scan if necessary. Lung X-rays may also be taken in the case of malignant tumors. Follow-up usually continues until five years after treatment.  

As phyllodes tumors are very uncommon, there is no firm guideline for follow-up checks as yet. Strenuous efforts are under way to develop a new guideline, which is expected to be finished in 2024.  

The five-year survival rate 

The prospects following phyllodes tumor treatment are generally very good. The average five-year survival rate for the three types combined is over 98%.