Idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis emulating breast carcinoma: a case report

Idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis is a rare and diagnostically challenging condition that clinically and radiologically mimics breast carcinoma. A high index of clinical suspicion is required for diagnosis. Histopathology is recommended over clinical imaging studies if idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis or breast cancer are suspected. Due to the rarity of this condition, this case report provides valuable insight into the diagnostic approach, differential diagnosis, associated radiological and histopathological findings, and treatment options, and also serves as a reference for successful treatment of idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis using conservative local and systemic immunosuppressive therapies with no clinical relapse for 3 years. Multidisciplinary approach is needed to prevent diagnostic delay and provide optimal therapeutic management and outcome.