Tuberculosis of the Breast- A Rare Entity

Introduction: Tuberculosis of the breast is an uncommon disease accounting less than 0.1% of breast conditions in developed countries and 3-4% in regions, where the disease presents with high incidence (India, Africa). Misdiagnosis is common in biopsy and aspiration smears as it is usually paucibacillary. In most cases, cultures are also negative. It often mimics breast carcinoma and pyogenic breast abscess both clinically and radiologically. Case Report: We report a case of mammary tuberculosis in a 25 year old lactating female, who presented in surgery OPD at Adesh Medical College and Hospital with painful lump in the left breast since one year. Conclusion: Mammary tuberculosis is a rare disease. It can be deceptive to radiologist and surgeons as it can mimic carcinoma. Definitive diagnosis relies on demonstration of acid fast bacilli either on microscopy, culture or molecular studies such as polymerase chain reaction. Polymerase chain reaction has good sensitivity for detection.