Breast Lump: A Rare Presentation of Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) is an uncommon cause of breast masses, typically affecting women of reproductive age.
• Diagnosis can be challenging, with breast TB frequently mistaken for malignant tumors.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management.

Observation:

• A case report of a 19-year-old female presenting with a breast abscess.
• Initial diagnostic workup using fine-needle aspiration cytology and ultrasonography suggested a pyogenic abscess.
• Microscopic examination of pus using Ziehl-Neelsen stain identified acid-fast bacilli.

Findings:

• The breast abscess was confirmed to be caused by tuberculosis.
• The Ziehl-Neelsen stain was pivotal in identifying the causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• The patient was initiated on appropriate antitubercular therapy.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of breast lumps, especially in young women.
• Emphasizes the diagnostic utility of Ziehl-Neelsen staining in identifying breast tuberculosis.
• Underscores the need for meticulous investigation to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure correct treatment for breast TB.