Summary

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare chronic benign disease of the breast. Histologically, the disease presents as an inflammatory reaction with non-caseating granulomas considered characteristic for IGM. IGM is often confused with breast cancer or mastitis with abcedations, and is treated with surgery which involves mutilation of the breast. Although no consensus exists on the best treatment modality, the use of low-dose oral and topical steroids has proven efficacy.