What is Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis?

Idiopathic Granuloma Mastitis (IGM) is a rare chronic inflammatory breast disease of unknown etiology that can often clinically and radiologically mimic breast cancer. IGM affects approximately 1 in 100,000 women annually predominantly of hispanic decent, who are in the child-bearing ages and/or who have previously breastfed. Some studies suggest trauma to the breast and/or underlying autoimmune diseases may cause IGM. Currently, there are studies which include suggestive treatments but no cure for granuloma mastitis.

Granulomatous mastitis can be divided into idiopathic granulomatous mastitis(also known as granular lobular mastitis) and granulomatous mastitis occurring as a rare secondary complication of a great variety of other conditions such as tuberculosis and other infections, sarcoidosis and granulomatosis with polyangiitis.

Symptoms often include a lump found in the breast, pain, redness and swelling. Diagnosis should be given by a physician using ultrasound, and/or pathology reports.

*The information provided here is not supported by any specific physician or medical entity. The information provided is a collection of research and personal experience.*