Lactational mastitis is a locally developed purulent process in the breast, the main cause of which is milk stasis, blockage of the mammary ducts, and their incomplete emptying.

During this process, nipple fissures (nipple head crack) are often observed, sometimes with purulent discharge. These cracks can become infected with bacteria such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, corynebacteria, and an inflammatory process begins, which ends with mastitis.

The process is mainly unilateral, although it can develop in both breasts.

Clinical signs:

• Increasing breast size,
• Skin redness and thickening
• Temperature increase (38-40°C)
• Severe pain and discomfort locally in the breast

Non-lactational mastitis – is is an inflammatory process in the breast that is not related to childbirth or breastfeeding. This disease is usually observed in women aged 30-50 years, although it can rarely occur in women under 20 years of age.

Non-lactational mastitis is characterized by the accumulation of immunocompetent cells at the site of the lesion, and macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes participate in this process.

Complications: Complicated mastitis can cause lymphadenitis, phlegmon, or gangrene of the breast.

Granulomatous mastitis - One of the types of non-lactational mastitis that is often associated with autoimmune diseases.  

Clinical signs:

• Increasing breast size,
• Skin redness,
• Local hardening,
• Skin thickening,
• High temperature,
• Severe pain in the breast.

Diagnostics:

• Mammologist’s consultation
• Breast ultrasound
• Mammography
• Aspirational biopsy and cytology
• Bacteriological test  

Treatment:

• Drug therapy (antibiotics, non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications, immunomodulators, hormones)
• Surgery (wide excision of the affected area).

This disease is characterized by a high probability of relapse. The prognosis is favorable, but it is important to provide timely treatment with the correct treatment tactics.