Extremely advanced breast cancer presentation: Possible effect of coronavirus pandemicanxiety

background/aim: corona virus infection dramatically spread worldwide during 2020 and extraordinary restrictions have been implemented in order to reduce viral transmission. these measures compelled a complete restructuring of the health system, including temporary cancer screening suspension and a significant slow-down in cancer diagnoses and treatments. case report: we report five cases of extremely advanced breast cancer referred to our department amid the COVID-19 pandemic. these patients exhibited a poor prognosis or worse quality of life due to their oncological disease. conclusion: In our opinion, both the slow-down of diagnosis and treatment of oncological disease and anxiety over COVID-19 influenced this presentation. moreover, other patients were unable to receive palliative care. hopefully, these cases will not develop into extremely advanced-stage disease, and we will be able to provide at least the necessary palliative care.