Granulomatous mastitis is a rare, chronic inflammatory breast condition that can be both distressing and difficult to manage, especially when it recurs. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive breast care in Tucson, including advanced treatments for granulomatous mastitis. If you or a loved one is facing this diagnosis, understanding your options is the first step toward healing and relief.
What is Granulomatous Mastitis?
Granulomatous mastitis is a benign (non-cancerous) breast disease characterized by the formation of granulomas-clusters of immune cells that form in response to inflammation. While not a form of breast cancer, its symptoms can mimic those of malignancy, making accurate diagnosis essential. Common symptoms include breast lumps, pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes discharge.
To learn more about the condition, visit our detailed page on granulomatous mastitis.
How is Granulomatous Mastitis Diagnosed?
Because granulomatous mastitis can resemble breast cancer, a thorough evaluation is crucial. Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination by a breast specialist
- Breast imaging (ultrasound or mammogram)
- Biopsy to confirm the absence of cancer and identify granulomas
At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, our experienced team, led by Dr. Michele Ley, ensures that each patient receives a careful and accurate diagnosis, distinguishing granulomatous mastitis from other breast conditions that may require breast cancer treatment in Tucson.
Granulomatous Mastitis Treatment Options
Managing recurrent granulomatous mastitis often requires a personalized, multi-faceted approach. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we offer a range of treatment options:
1. Medication
- Antibiotics: Used if there is a secondary infection, though granulomatous mastitis itself is not caused by bacteria.
- Steroids: Oral corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and help control symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory: Celebrex, methotrexate, azathioprine are all options for oral medications.
2. Local Therapies
- Steroid Injections: Directly injecting steroids into the affected area can provide targeted relief.
- Topical Gels: Anti-inflammatory gels may be used to reduce local inflammation and discomfort. This includes topical steroid cream, or diclofenac gel.
3. Surgery
- Surgical Procedures: For persistent or recurrent cases, surgical removal of the affected tissue may be necessary. However, in most cases we try to avoid surgery for IGM. Our team is skilled in a variety of surgical procedures designed to minimize recurrence and preserve breast appearance.
4. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
- Some patients find symptom relief by making dietary adjustments, such as reducing dairy or inflammatory foods. While not a cure, these changes can support overall breast health.
Supportive Care and Ongoing Management
Living with recurrent granulomatous mastitis can be emotionally and physically challenging. That’s why we offer a full spectrum of supportive care resources to help you manage symptoms, cope with stress, and maintain your quality of life throughout treatment.
Expertise and Compassionate Care
Under the guidance of Dr. Michele Ley, a board-certified breast surgeon, Tucson Breast Health Specialists provides the highest standard of care for both benign and malignant breast conditions. Dr. Ley and her team are committed to offering individualized treatment plans, clear communication, and continuous support for every patient.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you are struggling with recurrent granulomatous mastitis or have concerns about your breast health, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to help you find the best path forward with the most advanced granulomatous mastitis treatment options available in Tucson. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our expert team and discover how we can help you achieve relief and peace of mind.
Michele Ley, MD, FACS
Dr. Michele Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, combines compassionate care with cutting-edge techniques to provide personalized treatment plans for breast cancer and high-risk patients. With a medical degree from St. Louis University, residency at the University of Arizona, and fellowship at UC San Francisco, Dr. Ley is board-certified in General Surgery and a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Her experience as a medical director for breast programs and her own journey as a breast cancer survivor at age 44 uniquely position her to offer empathetic and expert care to her patients.
