Galactocele secondary to breast tuberculosis: A case report

Galactocele secondary to breast tuberculosis: A case report | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Case Report Galactocele secondary to breast tuberculosis: A case report varsha Lamture, Yashwant Lamture This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8055765/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Revision Version 1 posted 16 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Breast tuberculosis (BTB) is an uncommon manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, more frequently observed in countries with a high tuberculosis burden. Due to its nonspecific clinical and radiological presentation and the absence of standardized diagnostic criteria, BTB is often misdiagnosed as more common benign or malignant breast conditions. We describe an exceptionally rare case of a lactating woman presenting with a galactocele that was subsequently confirmed to be secondary to breast tuberculosis through histopathological and microbiological evaluation. Despite an extensive literature search, no similar cases combining galactocele with BTB were identified, highlighting the clinical rarity of this association. This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of persistent breast lumps, particularly in young multiparous women from endemic regions. Early recognition and initiation of appropriate antitubercular therapy are essential to prevent complications and achieve favorable outcomes. Increased clinical awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and optimal management of this rare presentation. Breast abscesses lactocele granulomatous mastitis scrofula mycobacterium tuberculosis Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Introduction Galactocele, or lactocele, or a lacteal cyst, is a sporadic disease that occurs in the mammary gland and is filled with milk. The term "Galactocele" comes from the Greek words "galatea," which means milky white, and "-cele," which means pocket. The cyst can develop anywhere along the milk line, from the armpit to the inguinal region, but it's most often found in the central part of the breast. It's essential to distinguish galactoceles from other breast conditions, such as cysts, fibroadenomas, pyogenic abscesses, and carcinomas. Ultrasound is the imaging modality for diagnosis, and fine needle aspiration is diagnostic and therapeutic [ 1 ]. Breast tuberculosis was first reported in 1829. It can be either primary or secondary in origin. According to recent classifications, it may present as nodular, disseminated, or as a tubercular abscess. The nodular form mimics malignancy, appearing as a well-defined tumor with a tendency to infiltrate the skin and potentially cause ulceration. The miliary or disseminated type involves multiple synchronous lesions. The third form is a cold abscess, which creates a cavity similar to a pyogenic abscess. Breast tuberculosis is a rare disease in humans. It accounts for up to 4% of breast lesions in tuberculosis-endemic regions of India, whereas in developed countries its incidence is only about 0.1%. It typically affects women of reproductive age and may be associated with immunosuppression. Diagnosis is often challenging, as it must be differentiated from breast cancer, infectious conditions, and other chronic granulomatous diseases [ 2 ]. The present patient is a case of Galactocele associated with tuberculosis. We could not find a similar case report after an extensive literature search. Case presentation A 24-year-old female, a known case of pulmonary tuberculosis currently undergoing treatment for the past two months, presented with a mobile, non-tender, hard lump measuring 4 × 3 cm in the lower outer quadrant of the left breast. The lump was not fixed to the breast tissue, underlying muscle, or skin. There were no signs of skin involvement such as puckering, dimpling, or nipple retraction. Breast ultrasound revealed a cystic lesion. Aspiration produced a milky, purulent fluid; however, the cyst recurred following two aspiration attempts. A chest X-ray demonstrated healed pulmonary tuberculosis lesions in both lung apices. The patient subsequently underwent surgical intervention, and excision of the lump was performed. (Fig. 1 ). Histopathology revealed Galactocele with granulomatous lesion suggestive of tuberculosis with tiny fibroadenoma (Fig. 2 ). After surgery, she was prescribed six months of antitubercular treatment (rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol for three months, followed by rifampicin and isoniazid for another three months). She was advised regarding strict follow up protocol. Discussion Galactoceles are cysts containing milk, exclusively a disease of lactating mothers. Ductal obstruction is a critical factor during lactation, leading to the formation of a galactocele. To develop Galactocele, secretory breast epithelium, prolactin stimulus, and ductal obstruction are required in combination or individual. Secretory breast epithelium is an essential factor; hence galactoceles are common in the last three months of gestation, lactation, and sometimes even after lactation. In the present case, it was the first time noticed one year after the cession of breastfeeding. Oral-contraceptive pills are also responsible for it, as oestrogen is the hormone responsible for s ecretory breast epithelium. Prolactin stimulus is the second crucial causative agent. Around 30 cases of galactoceles in male infants are reported in the literature to date.[ 3 ]. All these galactoceles were secondary to either trans-placental passage of prolactin or pituitary adenomas. Even in male adults, sporadically reported cases of galactoceles secondary to prolactinoma were noted. Ductal obstruction also plays a vital role in the aetiology of Galactocele. Typical examples are the cases of post-breast-augmentation galactoceles emerging in more numbers. To date, 22 cases of Galactocele have been reported following breast reduction or breast augmentation. There is no hereditary or genetic theory as an aetiology of it [ 4 ]. Management of Galactocele is generally nonoperative. During lactation, image-guided aspiration is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Recurrence is infrequent. Breast massage before and after childbirth is preventive for this condition. After mammary augmentation surgery, Galactocele can be treated by dopamine agonists such as Bromocriptine, as chronic galactorrhoea is caused. Hence, inhibition of milk secretion is required. In cases of Galactocele secondary to Prolactinoma, it can be treated with medical therapy in most cases. Surgery and radiation are recommended for no responders. Cabergoline and Bromocriptine are commonly used medicine for Prolactinoma. If the cyst is not resolving after repeated aspirations, then excision with histopathological examination is warranted to rule out other pathology, including breast malignancy [ 5 ]. Raso et al. reported a case of a young woman who presented with a small, tender lump in the central portion of the left breast. Imaging and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a crystallizing galactocele [ 6 ]. However, in contrast to the present case, there was no association with tuberculosis. Tazzioli et al. reported a case involving a 30-year-old woman who presented with a right breast abscess and purulent nipple discharge. Initial ultrasound imaging demonstrated a hypoechoic lesion consistent with a breast abscess. She received antibiotic therapy, which resulted in temporary resolution of the lump and symptoms. However, the swelling recurred twice within a 90-day period. Repeat ultrasonography revealed features suggestive of duct ectasia. During the third recurrence, surgical incision and drainage were performed, along with biopsy of the abscess cavity wall. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of breast tuberculosis [ 7 ]. Similar to the present case, the patient was subsequently treated with antitubercular therapy. Farrokh D. et al. report a galactocele with malignant features on ultrasound in the accessory part of the breast. The young lady referred to the surgery department presented with axillary swelling. The patient underwent ultrasound imaging, revealing a hypoechoic lump with features suggestive of cancer. Ultrasound-guided needle aspirates milk as a content of it. Milk aspiration with regression of swelling confirms the diagnosis of Galactocele. Cytology of aspirated fluid and suspicious lesion (ultrasound guided) was not consistent with malignancy. Patient have followed up imaging with ultrasound after 4 months does not reveal any lesion [ 8 ]. According to Pimentel Nunes et al., there was a case reported that involved a 36-year-old Angolan woman with a history of breast reduction surgery. She presented with right breast enlargement, pain, purulent discharge through multiple skin openings, fever, and abdominal pain. Her condition had progressively worsened over the one year despite undergoing several surgical drainages and six months of antibiotic treatment. Breast imaging revealed an extensive fluid collection, with several small abscesses and axillary adenopathy complicated by multiple fistulae. As per the report, the fluid was drained through needle aspiration and found sterile for bacteria, mycobacteria, and fungi. The lymph node biopsy showed necrosis without granulomas, and the biopsy culture was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The patient benefitted from antitubercular treatment [ 9 ]. This case differs from the present case, as the patient did not exhibit any galactocele component. In present case, it appears that the woman was neither lactating nor on any oral contraceptive, making it more likely that duct obstruction resulting from BTB. could be the cause of Galactocele. Although rare, surgeons should know this combination of Galactocele and tuberculosis. Histopathology always plays a vital role along with clinical examination to diagnose it. Conclusion This case highlights an exceptionally rare clinical presentation of a galactocele occurring in association with breast tuberculosis. Following an exhaustive review of the current literature, no previously documented case with this combined pathology has been identified, indicating a unique diagnostic entity. Such atypical coexistence emphasizes the need for heightened clinical vigilance when evaluating breast lumps, particularly in tuberculosis-endemic regions or in patients with known tuberculosis. Early recognition and appropriate diagnostic workup — including imaging, aspiration cytology, and histopathological evaluation — are essential to differentiate this condition from malignancy and other chronic breast disorders, thereby facilitating timely and effective treatment. Declarations Acknowledgment (optional) Not applicable Statement of Ethics Consent to publish statement : written informed consent was obtained from the patient (or their parents/legal guardians/next-of-kin) to publish the details of their medical case and any accompanying images. Conflict of Interest Statement There are no any possible conflicts of interest. Funding Sources No funding was received for this publication Data Availability Statement Author Contribution All the Author's Contributions are as per I.C.M.J.E. Criteria for Authorship.Author VL: Conception of the work, primary clinical management of the patient, data collection, drafting of the manuscript.Author YL: Assistance in clinical management and data acquisition, interpretation of clinical findings, manuscript editing, and approval of the final version to be submitted. References Giess CS, Golshan M, Birdwell RL. Clinical and imaging features of galactocele with histopathologic correlation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2009;192(3): W168-73. Tewari M, Shukla HS. Breast tuberculosis: diagnosis, clinical features & management. Indian J Med Res. 2005;122(2):103-10. Giess CS, Golshan M, Birdwell RL. Clinical and imaging features of galactocele with histopathologic correlation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2009;192(3):W168-73. Arora BK, Arora R. Galactocele in male infants: a case report and review of literature. Breast J. 2014;20(5):539–41. Pinell-White X, Telem DA, Selesnick H, et al. Galactocele following cosmetic breast augmentation. Breast J. 2011;17(4):428-31. Raso, D. S., Greene, W. B., & Silverman, J. F. Crystallizing Galactocele. A case report. Acta cytological 1997, 41 (3), 863–870. https://doi.org/10.1159/000332718 Tazzioli, G., Macolino, A., Combi, F., Palma, E., Papi, S., Codeluppi, M., & Mussini, C.. Breast tuberculosis: A case report of primary type mammary tuberculosis. Clinical case reports 2019, 7 (12), 2346–2348. https://doi.org/10.1002/ccr3.2486 Farrokh, D., Alamdaran, A., Yousefi, F., & Abbasi, B. Galactocele in the Axillary Accessory Breast Mimicking Suspicious Solid Mass on Ultrasound. Case reports in obstetrics and gynecology, 2017, 4807013. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/4807013 Pimentel Nunes, M., Branco Carvalho, I., Araújo, I., Almeida, R., & Araújo, J. Breast Tuberculosis: A Case Report. Cureus 2023, 15 (1), e34175. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.34175 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Revision Version 1 posted Editorial decision: Revision requested 06 Mar, 2026 Reviews received at journal 05 Mar, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 26 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 25 Feb, 2026 Reviews received at journal 25 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 25 Feb, 2026 Reviews received at journal 24 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 24 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 24 Feb, 2026 Editor invited by journal 16 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 01 Dec, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 01 Dec, 2025 Reviewers invited by journal 25 Nov, 2025 Editor assigned by journal 11 Nov, 2025 Submission checks completed at journal 11 Nov, 2025 First submitted to journal 07 Nov, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. 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1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":755825,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eshows an excised cystic lump of 'the left beast with white milky fluid, as the black arrow shows.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8055765/v1/22a74608ca03c9fa9a165453.png"},{"id":97258715,"identity":"8ffec81b-642f-4edf-a235-0d8885d06605","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-02 13:47:52","extension":"jpeg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":582879,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSections showed features consistent with Galactocele with chronic tuberculous inflammation and tiny fibro 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The term \"Galactocele\" comes from the Greek words \"galatea,\" which means milky white, and \"-cele,\" which means pocket. The cyst can develop anywhere along the milk line, from the armpit to the inguinal region, but it's most often found in the central part of the breast. It's essential to distinguish galactoceles from other breast conditions, such as cysts, fibroadenomas, pyogenic abscesses, and carcinomas. Ultrasound is the imaging modality for diagnosis, and fine needle aspiration is diagnostic and therapeutic [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBreast tuberculosis was first reported in 1829. It can be either primary or secondary in origin. According to recent classifications, it may present as nodular, disseminated, or as a tubercular abscess. The nodular form mimics malignancy, appearing as a well-defined tumor with a tendency to infiltrate the skin and potentially cause ulceration. The miliary or disseminated type involves multiple synchronous lesions. The third form is a cold abscess, which creates a cavity similar to a pyogenic abscess. Breast tuberculosis is a rare disease in humans. It accounts for up to 4% of breast lesions in tuberculosis-endemic regions of India, whereas in developed countries its incidence is only about 0.1%. It typically affects women of reproductive age and may be associated with immunosuppression. Diagnosis is often challenging, as it must be differentiated from breast cancer, infectious conditions, and other chronic granulomatous diseases [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe present patient is a case of Galactocele associated with tuberculosis. We could not find a similar case report after an extensive literature search.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Case presentation","content":"\u003cp\u003eA 24-year-old female, a known case of pulmonary tuberculosis currently undergoing treatment for the past two months, presented with a mobile, non-tender, hard lump measuring 4 \u0026times; 3 cm in the lower outer quadrant of the left breast. The lump was not fixed to the breast tissue, underlying muscle, or skin. There were no signs of skin involvement such as puckering, dimpling, or nipple retraction.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBreast ultrasound revealed a cystic lesion. Aspiration produced a milky, purulent fluid; however, the cyst recurred following two aspiration attempts. A chest X-ray demonstrated healed pulmonary tuberculosis lesions in both lung apices. The patient subsequently underwent surgical intervention, and excision of the lump was performed. (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHistopathology revealed Galactocele with granulomatous lesion suggestive of tuberculosis with tiny fibroadenoma (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter surgery, she was prescribed six months of antitubercular treatment (rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol for three months, followed by rifampicin and isoniazid for another three months). She was advised regarding strict follow up protocol.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eGalactoceles are cysts containing milk, exclusively a disease of lactating mothers. Ductal obstruction is a critical factor during lactation, leading to the formation of a galactocele. To develop Galactocele, secretory breast epithelium, prolactin stimulus, and ductal obstruction are required in combination or individual. Secretory breast epithelium is an essential factor; hence galactoceles are common in the last three months of gestation, lactation, and sometimes even after lactation. In the present case, it was the first time noticed one year after the cession of breastfeeding. Oral-contraceptive pills are also responsible for it, as oestrogen is the hormone responsible for \u003cb\u003es\u003c/b\u003eecretory breast epithelium. Prolactin stimulus is the second crucial causative agent. Around 30 cases of galactoceles in male infants are reported in the literature to date.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll these galactoceles were secondary to either trans-placental passage of prolactin or pituitary adenomas. Even in male adults, sporadically reported cases of galactoceles secondary to prolactinoma were noted. Ductal obstruction also plays a vital role in the aetiology of Galactocele. Typical examples are the cases of post-breast-augmentation galactoceles emerging in more numbers. To date, 22 cases of Galactocele have been reported following breast reduction or breast augmentation. There is no hereditary or genetic theory as an aetiology of it [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eManagement of Galactocele is generally nonoperative. During lactation, image-guided aspiration is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Recurrence is infrequent. Breast massage before and after childbirth is preventive for this condition. After mammary augmentation surgery, Galactocele can be treated by dopamine agonists such as Bromocriptine, as chronic galactorrhoea is caused. Hence, inhibition of milk secretion is required. In cases of Galactocele secondary to Prolactinoma, it can be treated with medical therapy in most cases. Surgery and radiation are recommended for no responders. Cabergoline and Bromocriptine are commonly used medicine for Prolactinoma. If the cyst is not resolving after repeated aspirations, then excision with histopathological examination is warranted to rule out other pathology, including breast malignancy [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRaso et al. reported a case of a young woman who presented with a small, tender lump in the central portion of the left breast. Imaging and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a crystallizing galactocele [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. However, in contrast to the present case, there was no association with tuberculosis.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTazzioli et al. reported a case involving a 30-year-old woman who presented with a right breast abscess and purulent nipple discharge. Initial ultrasound imaging demonstrated a hypoechoic lesion consistent with a breast abscess. She received antibiotic therapy, which resulted in temporary resolution of the lump and symptoms. However, the swelling recurred twice within a 90-day period. Repeat ultrasonography revealed features suggestive of duct ectasia. During the third recurrence, surgical incision and drainage were performed, along with biopsy of the abscess cavity wall. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of breast tuberculosis [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. Similar to the present case, the patient was subsequently treated with antitubercular therapy.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFarrokh D. et al. report a galactocele with malignant features on ultrasound in the accessory part of the breast. The young lady referred to the surgery department presented with axillary swelling. The patient underwent ultrasound imaging, revealing a hypoechoic lump with features suggestive of cancer. Ultrasound-guided needle aspirates milk as a content of it. Milk aspiration with regression of swelling confirms the diagnosis of Galactocele. Cytology of aspirated fluid and suspicious lesion (ultrasound guided) was not consistent with malignancy. Patient have followed up imaging with ultrasound after 4 months does not reveal any lesion [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Pimentel Nunes et al., there was a case reported that involved a 36-year-old Angolan woman with a history of breast reduction surgery. She presented with right breast enlargement, pain, purulent discharge through multiple skin openings, fever, and abdominal pain. Her condition had progressively worsened over the one year despite undergoing several surgical drainages and six months of antibiotic treatment. Breast imaging revealed an extensive fluid collection, with several small abscesses and axillary adenopathy complicated by multiple fistulae. As per the report, the fluid was drained through needle aspiration and found sterile for bacteria, mycobacteria, and fungi. The lymph node biopsy showed necrosis without granulomas, and the biopsy culture was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The patient benefitted from antitubercular treatment [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e]. This case differs from the present case, as the patient did not exhibit any galactocele component.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn present case, it appears that the woman was neither lactating nor on any oral contraceptive, making it more likely that duct obstruction resulting from BTB. could be the cause of Galactocele. Although rare, surgeons should know this combination of Galactocele and tuberculosis. Histopathology always plays a vital role along with clinical examination to diagnose it.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;This case highlights an exceptionally rare clinical presentation of a galactocele occurring in association with breast tuberculosis. Following an exhaustive review of the current literature, no previously documented case with this combined pathology has been identified, indicating a unique diagnostic entity. Such atypical coexistence emphasizes the need for heightened clinical vigilance when evaluating breast lumps, particularly in tuberculosis-endemic regions or in patients with known tuberculosis.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarly recognition and appropriate diagnostic workup \u0026mdash; including imaging, aspiration cytology, and histopathological evaluation \u0026mdash; are essential to differentiate this condition from malignancy and other chronic breast disorders, thereby facilitating timely and effective treatment.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan id=\"_Toc472330563\"\u003eAcknowledgment (optional)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc472330564\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;of Ethics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eConsent to publish statement\u003c/u\u003e: written informed consent was obtained from \u003cstrong\u003ethe patient\u003c/strong\u003e (or their parents/legal guardians/next-of-kin) to publish the details of their medical case and any accompanying images.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc472330565\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict of Interest Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are no any possible conflicts of interest.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"_Toc472330566\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding Sources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo funding was received for this publication\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Availability Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll the Author's Contributions are as per\u0026nbsp;I.C.M.J.E. Criteria for Authorship.Author VL: Conception of the work, primary clinical management of the patient, data collection, drafting of the manuscript.Author YL: Assistance in clinical management and data acquisition, interpretation of clinical findings, manuscript editing, and approval of the final version to be submitted.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGiess CS, Golshan M, Birdwell RL. Clinical and imaging features of galactocele with histopathologic correlation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2009;192(3): W168-73.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTewari M, Shukla HS. Breast tuberculosis: diagnosis, clinical features \u0026amp; management. Indian J Med Res. 2005;122(2):103-10.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGiess CS, Golshan M, Birdwell RL. Clinical and imaging features of galactocele with histopathologic correlation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2009;192(3):W168-73.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArora BK, Arora R. Galactocele in male infants: a case report and review of literature. Breast J. 2014;20(5):539\u0026ndash;41.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePinell-White X, Telem DA, Selesnick H, et al. Galactocele following cosmetic breast augmentation. Breast J. 2011;17(4):428-31.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRaso, D. S., Greene, W. B., \u0026amp; Silverman, J. F. Crystallizing Galactocele. A case report. \u003cem\u003eActa cytological \u003c/em\u003e1997, \u003cem\u003e41\u003c/em\u003e(3), 863\u0026ndash;870. https://doi.org/10.1159/000332718\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTazzioli, G., Macolino, A., Combi, F., Palma, E., Papi, S., Codeluppi, M., \u0026amp; Mussini, C.. Breast tuberculosis: A case report of primary type mammary tuberculosis. \u003cem\u003eClinical case reports\u003c/em\u003e2019, \u003cem\u003e7\u003c/em\u003e(12), 2346\u0026ndash;2348. https://doi.org/10.1002/ccr3.2486\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFarrokh, D., Alamdaran, A., Yousefi, F., \u0026amp; Abbasi, B. Galactocele in the Axillary Accessory Breast Mimicking Suspicious Solid Mass on Ultrasound. Case reports in obstetrics and gynecology, 2017, 4807013. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/4807013\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePimentel Nunes, M., Branco Carvalho, I., Ara\u0026uacute;jo, I., Almeida, R., \u0026amp; Ara\u0026uacute;jo, J. Breast Tuberculosis: A Case Report. \u003cem\u003eCureus\u003c/em\u003e 2023, \u003cem\u003e15\u003c/em\u003e(1), e34175. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.34175\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-infectious-diseases","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"infd","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Infectious Diseases](http://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/infd","title":"BMC Infectious Diseases","twitterHandle":"#bmcinfectdis","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Breast abscesses, lactocele, granulomatous mastitis, scrofula, mycobacterium tuberculosis","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8055765/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8055765/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eBreast tuberculosis (BTB) is an uncommon manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, more frequently observed in countries with a high tuberculosis burden. Due to its nonspecific clinical and radiological presentation and the absence of standardized diagnostic criteria, BTB is often misdiagnosed as more common benign or malignant breast conditions. We describe an exceptionally rare case of a lactating woman presenting with a galactocele that was subsequently confirmed to be secondary to breast tuberculosis through histopathological and microbiological evaluation. Despite an extensive literature search, no similar cases combining galactocele with BTB were identified, highlighting the clinical rarity of this association. This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of persistent breast lumps, particularly in young multiparous women from endemic regions. Early recognition and initiation of appropriate antitubercular therapy are essential to prevent complications and achieve favorable outcomes. Increased clinical awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and optimal management of this rare presentation.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Galactocele secondary to breast tuberculosis: A case report","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-12-02 13:47:47","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8055765/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-03-06T10:44:11+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-03-05T07:39:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"252712671129858050181381331132442822756","date":"2026-02-26T06:24:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"187910052422476711456268545722461713469","date":"2026-02-25T17:09:46+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-25T07:20:45+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"173259912800814851432973555130020829337","date":"2026-02-25T07:08:02+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-24T19:08:48+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"304022546186461353776123074974956818075","date":"2026-02-24T19:03:32+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"231395361202173092549035860129497899016","date":"2026-02-24T18:10:46+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2026-02-16T14:07:30+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"100710638916590165828659300726388893486","date":"2025-12-01T05:40:02+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"328406379118962753534652910901592670641","date":"2025-12-01T05:04:57+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-11-26T02:06:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-11-11T09:49:07+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-11-11T09:45:30+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"BMC Infectious Diseases","date":"2025-11-07T09:58:04+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-infectious-diseases","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"infd","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Infectious Diseases](http://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/infd","title":"BMC Infectious Diseases","twitterHandle":"#bmcinfectdis","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"37d289d0-991f-4566-92cb-ddd98a182509","owner":[],"postedDate":"December 2nd, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"in-revision","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-06T10:55:38+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-12-02 13:47:47","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8055765","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8055765","identity":"rs-8055765","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}