Reviewed May 2009
Mastopathy Q&A
Mastopathy is the name given to fibrous (tough) breast tissue, which can
develop in people with diabetes. A person would notice hard lumps in one
of both breasts.
Q. Who gets diabetic mastopathy?
A. Diabetic mastopathy is an uncommon condition. It is usually seen in women who are pre-menopausal,
and who have had Type 1 diabetes for many years, although very rarely it can be seen in men with
diabetes as well. Often diabetic mastopathy is associated with micro-vascular complications (damage to
the eyes, kidneys and heart), and some people will also have other disorders such as thyroid problems.
Q. What is the cause?
A.The exact cause is unknown. The condition was only first described in 1984 1.It is thought to be the
result of chronic damage to the breast tissue due to persistently high blood glucose levels.
Q. Why might someone suspect they have diabetic mastopathy?
A. Hard, non tender, nodules (lumps), would be felt in one or both breasts. As is the case for anyone who
discovers a lump in their breast, they should be examined by their doctor as soon as possible.
Q. How would diabetic mastopathy be confirmed?
A. A mammogram may be arranged but if the breast tissue is too dense for a good image then ultrasound
scanning would be used.
Following this there would be a fine needle aspiration of the lump (removal of cells or fluid from the lump
(lesion) using a fine needle, or a biopsy (removal of a small piece of the lesion). The material removed
from the breast is sent to the laboratory for identification. This will confirm that the lesion is not malignant
(cancerous), but that it is due to diabetic mastopathy.
Q. What is the treatment?
A: Once it has been ascertained that the lump is not cancerous treatment may well just inolve control of
blood glucose and regular checking that they are not changing in size. If they become uncomfortable
then they may be removed. Often if the lumps are removed they may re-occur.
Mastopathy Q&A
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Regular breast self examination is important for all women but especially so if you have a history of
mastopathy. If you are unsure about how to do, this your practice nurse will be able to show you and if
you are uncertain of what you are feeling, then make an appointment for a check with your doctor
References
1: Soler NG, Khandori R. Fibrous disease of the breast, thiroiditis and cheirartropathy in type 1 diabetes
mellitus. Lancet 1984;I: 193-4
For information covering a variety of diabetes related topics, see our full range of information sheets,
produced in 20 languages, available only by downloading them from our website www.diabetes.org.uk/…
The Diabetes UK Catalogue describes our full range of books and leaflets. For a copy of our catalogue
and any of the leaflets quoted in this information sheet, call Diabetes UK Distribution: 0800 585 088.
For support on any aspect of diabetes please call Diabetes UK Careline: 0845 120 2960 (charged at local
rate) (translation service is available). Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
The charity for people with diabetes
Website: www.diabetes.org.uk
A charity registered in England and Wales (no. 215199)
and in Scotland (no. SC039136).
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