Diabetic Mastopathy: A Monocentric Study to Explore This Uncommon Breast Disease

Abstract

Background: Diabetic Mastopathy (DMP) is an uncommon benign fibro-inflammatory condition that occurs in women with long-standing diabetes mellitus (DM), particularly type 1. It often mimics breast cancer (BC) in clinical and imaging presentations, leading to diagnostic challenges. Methods: A retrospective monocentric study was conducted, analyzing clinical, radiologic, and pathological data from 28 women diagnosed with DMP over 10 years at the European Institute of Oncology. Data on DM type, age at DMP diagnosis, associated autoimmune conditions, imaging features, and surgical outcomes were collected and compared with the existing literature. Results: The majority (82%) of the patients had type 1 DM, with most diagnosed with DMP before age 40. Common complications included retinopathy (46%) and neuropathy (35%). Imaging often suggested malignancy, necessitating core needle biopsies for diagnosis. Surgical intervention occurred in 55% of cases, with a recurrence rate of 32%. One case of BC was observed. Conclusions: DMP remains challenging due to its resemblance to BC. Conservative management is typical, but the recurrence rate post-surgery highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring. Although DMP does not significantly increase BC risk, caution is advised, especially for immunocompromised patients. Further studies are needed to comprehensively understand DMP’s relationship with BC.

Keywords

• diabetic mastopathy
• diabetes mellitus
• breast cancer
• breast imaging