Breast Lymphedema Secondary to Lymph Node Tuberculosis: Case Report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Background:

• Breast lymphedema is a prevalent yet frequently underdiagnosed condition impacting patient quality of life.
• It arises from disruptions in lymphatic drainage within the breast.
• Axillary lymph node pathologies are a potential cause of secondary breast lymphedema.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of breast edema caused by tuberculous infection of axillary lymph nodes.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges in differentiating this condition from tuberculous mastitis.
• To emphasize the importance of clinical suspicion for secondary lymphedema in diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a female patient with breast edema.
• Clinical and radiographic evaluation to differentiate from tuberculous mastitis.
• Antituberculosis pharmacological treatment followed by diagnostic reassessment.
• Rehabilitation with complex physical therapy.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with breast edema clinically and radiographically mimicking tuberculous mastitis.
• Initial antituberculosis treatment did not resolve the edema, necessitating further investigation for malignancy.
• All malignancy tests were negative.
• Complex physical therapy led to clinical and symptomatic improvement.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculous infection of axillary lymph nodes can manifest as breast edema, posing diagnostic challenges.
• Clinical suspicion of secondary lymphedema is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
• Prompt identification and appropriate treatment, including physical therapy, can improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary diagnostic procedures.