Conservative management for idiopathic granulomatous mastitis mimicking carcinoma: case reports and literature review

Abstract

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a relatively rare condition and may commonly mimic carcinoma. Clinically and radiologically, these lesions could be misdiagnosed as carcinoma and histopathology is the most definitive method of diagnosis and to differentiate it from other granulomatous conditions such as sarcoidosis and Wegener's granulomatosis. We report two cases of IGM presenting with ill-defined indurated mass, peau d'orange and ulcerative lesions clinically mimicking carcinoma. They were successfully treated with corticosteroids. Even abscesses can be aspirated and avoid surgery. A high index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose this condition to prevent unnecessary mastectomy.