A Rare Case OF Tuberculous Mastitis Mimicking Breast Carcinoma: Diagnostic Challenges AND Management Considerations

Tuberculous mastitis is a rare form of breast infection that can mimic the clinical and radiological features of breast carcinoma, leading to diagnostic challenges. We present a case of tuberculous mastitis in a 42-year-old female who initially presented with a breast mass and skin changes, mimicking Malignancy. Diagnostic investigations, including mammography, ultrasound, and histopathological analysis, were inconclusive, requiring further evaluation. Subsequent acid-Fast bacilli staining and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, establishing the diagnosis of tuberculous mastitis. This case highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of breast masses, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of tuberculosis. The diagnostic challenges encountered in this case emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach and careful evaluation to differentiate tuberculous mastitis from breast carcinoma.