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Mastitis due to Mycobacterium abscessus after body piercing
J K Trupiano1, B A Sebek, J Goldfarb
1Department of Anatomic Pathology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Summary
This report details a rare case of granulomatous mastitis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus, linked to a pierced nipple. It highlights a novel association between this bacterium and body piercings in breast infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Granulomatous mastitis is a rare inflammatory condition of the breast.
- Mycobacterium abscessus is a rapidly growing, non-tuberculous mycobacterium known for causing various infections.
Observation:
- A patient presented with a breast mass lesion suggestive of granulomatous mastitis.
- The patient had a history of a pierced nipple.
Findings:
- The granulomatous mastitis was diagnosed as being caused by Mycobacterium abscessus.
- This represents the first reported case of mastitis attributed to M. abscessus.
- This is also the first documented association between M. abscessus and body piercing in relation to breast infection.
Implications:
- Highlights a potential risk factor (body piercing) for atypical mycobacterial infections in the breast.
- Suggests considering M. abscessus in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous mastitis, especially in patients with a history of body piercing.
- Underscores the importance of understanding the diverse clinical presentations and etiological associations of non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections.