OBJECTIVETo study the clinical and pathologic features of granulomatous lobular mastitis (GLM).

METHODSSixty-eight cases of GLM were retrieved from the archival file. The clinical data and histologic features were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTSSixty-eight patients presented with breast mass. Ulceration in overlying breast skin was seen in 9 cases. Most of the patients had history of breast feeding. None of them had evidence of specific infections involving the breast. The clinical and radiologic features mimicked malignancy. Histologically, GLM was characterized by the presence of non-necrotizing granulomas, usually admixed with neutrophils and associated with benign ductolobular units. The ductolobular architecture was still preserved. The duration of follow up ranged from 6 to 36 months. Four patients suffered from disease recurrence.

CONCLUSIONSGLM shows clinical and radiologic features reminiscent of breast cancer. Correct diagnosis requires histologic examination of the biopsy specimens.