Mondor’s Disease on Breast Imaging

IMAGING FINDINGS: ​​

CC and MLO tomosynthesis views of the left breast show a dilated tubular structure superficially in the upper outer quadrant.  

WHY IT MATTERS:

1. Mondor’s Disease is a unique, relatively unknown condition of the breast that is actually not that uncommon.  It is a superficial thrombophlebitis of the breast.  It usually affects a superficial blood vessel in the upper outer quadrant of the breast.
2. Patients typically present with a “cord-like” thickening that is very painful.  
3. There may not be any imaging findings (but you can diagnose it based on the symptoms and a breast exam) or there may be an engorged vessel superficially that you  may see on mammography or ultrasound in the area of concern.
4. Mondor’s is a self-limited condition.  Offer the patient reassurance that it usually resolves in 6 – 8 weeks.  Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain relief.
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FURTHER READING:
Mondor’s Disease of the Breast: Sonographic and Mammographic Findings (AJR, 2000)