Significant Eosinophilic Infiltrate of the Breast

Background: Prominent tissue eosinophilic infiltrate is encountered in a number of inflammatory states, particularly in allergic diseases, parasitic infection, collagen diseases and hematological malignancies. We searched for significant or prominent eosinophilic infiltrates of the breast in benign and malignant diseases. Methods: All breast cases reported in our institution during the period of 1999-2008 were reviewed for significant or prominent eosinophilic infiltrate.Results: Eight cases were identified. Four cases diagnosed as granulomatous mastitis, one eosinophilic mastitis, two ductal carcinomas and one gynecomastia.Conclusion: Significant eosinophilic infiltrate was identified mainly in cases of mastitis and rarely in breast carcinomas. Although eosinophils can degranulate and release toxic inhibiting factors into tumors, they are uncommonly encountered in breast carcinomas.