Clinical and Surgical Insights into Zuska Disease: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Zuska disease is a rare inflammatory condition of the mammary gland, characterized by recurrent non-puerperal abscesses in the periareolar region, often complicated by fistula formation. It predominantly affects women who smoke, particularly perimenopausal women. This study aims to investigate the clinical features, treatment outcomes, and recurrence rates of Zuska disease in a cohort of patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 19 patients diagnosed with Zuska disease and treated at the Breast Surgery Clinic of San Martino Policlinic Hospital between January 2021 and June 2024. Data were collected on demographics, clinical presentation, imaging findings, surgical interventions, intraoperative cultures, and postoperative outcomes. The types of surgeries performed, antibiotic therapy regimens, and histological findings were recorded. Results: The mean age of the patients was 43.8 years. The most common presentation was a painful breast mass without fistula formation (12 patients), signs of a past abscess with negative preoperative ultrasound findings (five patients), and abscesses with fistulas (two patients). Intraoperative cultures revealed a range of bacterial species. Recurrence occurred in five patients (26%), and reoperation was required in three cases. All patients were free of symptoms at follow-up, with an average recurrence time of 13.6 months. Conclusions: Zuska disease presents significant treatment challenges due to its recurrent nature. While surgical interventions, such as abscess drainage and ductal excision, are effective, recurrence remains common, particularly in patients with risk factors like smoking. A personalized therapeutic approach, tailored to each patient’s clinical profile, is essential to improving long-term outcomes. Early diagnosis, timely surgical management, and lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in reducing recurrence. Future studies should focus on optimizing treatment protocols and developing individualized strategies for managing comorbidities.