Management of granulomatous mastitis

Granulomatous mastitis causes inflammation within breast tissue and can lead to a tender lump, redness, swelling, skin changes or drainage. It can resemble an infection or another breast problem, so examination and breast imaging may be followed by a biopsy to identify the pattern of inflammation. The condition itself is not the same as breast cancer, although a clinician may need to exclude other causes.

Your clinician may recommend observation when symptoms are limited, or medicines that calm inflammation when the breast is persistently painful or swollen. Antibiotics are useful when an infection is suspected or confirmed, but they do not treat every cause of granulomatous inflammation. A drain may be considered for a collection of pus. Supportive care can include comfortable breast support, prescribed pain relief and review of breastfeeding or milk removal if relevant. Follow-up helps assess whether the lump, skin changes or drainage are settling.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new breast lump, increasing redness, worsening pain, fever, an open wound or fluid that continues to drain. Seek urgent care if you feel faint, confused, severely unwell or short of breath. Do not squeeze or repeatedly massage an inflamed area, because this can irritate the tissue.

Ask what findings support granulomatous mastitis, whether a biopsy or culture is needed, which treatment is being considered, how breastfeeding or milk removal should be handled, and when the breast should be reviewed.