Breast Lymphedema Secondary to Lymph Node Tuberculosis: Case Report

Breast lymphedema is a common but underdiagnosed condition that affects the quality of life of patients. It may be caused by any pathology that disrupts lymphatic drainage in the breast. We present the case of a woman with axillary lymph node tuberculous infection with breast edema, clinically and radiographically indistinguishable from tuberculous mastitis. After six months of comprehensive antituberculosis pharmacological treatment, the persistence of breast edema required repeating diagnostic tests searching for malignancy, all of which were negative. Rehabilitation treatment with complex physical therapy improved the patient's clinical and symptomatic condition. Clinical suspicion of secondary lymphedema is crucial to avoid unnecessary diagnostic procedures and ensure adequate and timely treatment.