Subareolar abscess of the breast in a male. A report of two cases with fine needle aspiration cytology diagnosis

Abstract

Background: Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a well-established method for the diagnosis of breast diseases in males, but very little attention has been focused on inflammatory lesions. Previous reports do not mention subareolar abscess (SA), which is a distinct entity in breasts of females.

Cases: Two adult males presented for FNA of recurrent breast masses located near the nipple. Smears from both patients showed the typical cytologic features of SA.

Conclusion: Recognition of this troublesome and rare condition on FNA cytology from the breasts in males will prevent recurrences since SA is not cured by excisional biopsy.