Radiology–Pathology Correlation: Inflammatory Conditions of the Breast

Abstract

Inflammatory conditions of the breast can clinically and radiologically resemble malignant processes, constituting a diagnostic dilemma. Core needle biopsy, with special stains and microbiology, may be needed to help distinguish between benign inflammatory processes and malignancy. This article focuses on describing the common types of benign inflammatory-related pathologies in the breast with an emphasis on radiology–pathology correlation. We have classified these entities based on the types of inflammation seen at the time of pathologic diagnosis: acute inflammation and abscess formation, chronic inflammation, granulomatous inflammation, non-granulomatous inflammation, and vascular inflammation. This review focuses on describing the common types of inflammation seen in the breast and will familiarize the reader to confidently perform and understand radiology–pathology correlation with these types of findings.