Management of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis with observation

Background Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is becoming more commonly recognized and reported more often. Currently, many recommend corticosteroids in its management. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted from January 2002 to June 2013. Data were collected regarding sociodemographic information, clinical history, treatment, and outcomes. Results Thirty-seven patients were found with IGM. Thirty-five patients were Hispanic born outside the United States. Early in the time period reviewed, 5 patients had masses excised and 5 patients were lost to follow-up. Twenty-seven cases of IGM resolved with observation. Corticosteroids were not used in the management. The average time to resolution was 7.4 months. Three patients (11%) had recurrent episodes after resolution. Conclusions IGM is a self-limited benign condition that will resolve spontaneously without treatment. Patience with the natural history of IGM is important, as the process often includes periods of exacerbation before resolution.