Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (breast manifestations)

Breast involvement in granulomatosis with polyangiitis is seen in patients with avid systemic manifestations.

Clinical presentation

Clinically they can mimic carcinoma as a palpable, tender mass.

Pathology

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (or formerly known as Wegeners granulomatosis) is a necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis which is characterized by necrotizing granulomatous inflammation, small and medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and focal necrotizing glomerulonephritis.

The commonest areas of involvement are the respiratory tracts and kidneys, but the disease can affect any organ system.

Radiological features

Mammography

May be seen as an irregular and high-density mass.

Treatment and prognosis

The treatment for granulomatosis with polyangiitis depends on the severity of the disease. Severe disease can be treated with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. For less severe disease, the treatment may be corticosteroids and methotrexate. Approximately half of patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis may experience a relapse within 2 years of stopping treatment.