Abstract
Lupus mastitis is a form of lupus profundus that is seen in patients with systemic
lupus erythematosus. It usually presents as a swelling (or swellings) in the breasts,
with or without pain. The condition is recurrent and progresses along with the underlying
disease, with fat necrosis, calcification, fibrosis, scarring, and breast atrophy.
Lupus mastitis is often confused with malignancy and lymphoma and, in our part of
the world, with tuberculosis. Confusion is especially likely when it occurs in an
unusual clinical setting. In this article, we present a case that presented with unique
radiological, pathological, and clinical features. Awareness of the various manifestations
of lupus mastitis is essential if unnecessary interventions such as biopsies and surgeries,
and their consequences, are to be avoided.
Keywords
Biopsy - lupus mastitis - lupus profundus - mammography - fine needle aspiration cytology
- systemic lupus erythematosus
