Xanthogranulomatous mastitis treatment

Xanthogranulomatous mastitis is a rare inflammatory breast condition in which immune cells and altered fatty tissue create a mass-like area. It can resemble an abscess or breast cancer on examination or imaging, so a tissue sample may be needed before treatment is chosen. Breast pain, redness, swelling, discharge or a firm area can occur. Because appearances overlap with other problems, a breast lump should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed. If breastfeeding, tell the clinician, since milk production and feeding plans affect practical decisions.

A breast specialist may arrange examination, ultrasound or other imaging and a biopsy. Treatment can include antibiotics when infection is present, drainage when a collection has formed, anti-inflammatory treatment in selected cases, or surgery to remove persistently affected tissue. The plan depends on the biopsy result, the size and location of inflammation, recurrence and your symptoms. Do not squeeze or repeatedly massage a painful lump. Ask how to protect feeding, express milk safely if advised, and care for a wound if a procedure is needed. A lactation consultation can help when pain or treatment disrupts breastfeeding.

Arrange prompt assessment for a new breast lump, worsening breast pain, redness, warmth, nipple discharge, skin dimpling or fever. Seek urgent help if you feel very unwell, develop rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, confusion or faintness. After treatment, contact the team for increasing swelling, wound separation, pus, fever or symptoms that return. These signs need review because infection, a collection or another breast condition may require different care.

Ask: What tests will confirm the diagnosis? Could this be an abscess or another breast condition? Do I need antibiotics, drainage, anti-inflammatory treatment or surgery? Can I continue breastfeeding? What changes should prompt an urgent review?