CHRONIC MASTITIS

Abstract

Non-puerperal mastitis is a chronic inflammation of the breast that may or may not be associated with an acute infection. It is a benign and lowrecurrence breast condition. There are different types of mastitis, classified as infectious or non-infectious. When infectious, it may have a viral, fungal or bacterial etiology. When non-infectious, it can often be associated with another underlying disease, or still have an unknown etiology. The diagnosis of these mastitis can be made through imaging tests, such as mammography and ultrasonography, in addition to biopsies and other laboratory tests. Despite being a rare process, its diagnosis is important to reduce prolonged morbidity and alleviate the suffering of affected patients. Treatment varies depending on the type of mastitis and may include the use of anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, surgery and even immunosuppressive drugs.