Gestational gigantomastia—a rare entity complicated by life-threatening haemorrhage

Abstract

Gestational gigantomastia is a psychologically and physically debilitating disease of unknown aetiology. Underlying diseases that present as gigantomastia should be excluded by a thorough workup. Most cases respond to the preferred approach: conservative management, as foetal viability and well-being is of significant importance. However, in those cases where the maternal mortality is at risk, the surgical approach is preferred. Life-threatening haemorrhage may occur and early recognition and treatment is paramount to outcome. A case of gestational gigantomastia complicated by life-threatening haemorrhage is presented and discussed.

Idiopathic gigantomastia exacerbated during pregnancy. Its relationship with autoimmunity: A case report

“…1 The incidence of idiopathic gigantomastia is unknown, while the incidence of gestational gigantomastia is 1:28 000 to 1:100 000. 6 The risk factors are not fully defined, but it has been reported to be more common in multiparous and Caucasian women than in African American women (9:4). 7 The etiology of gigantomastia is unknown.…”

“…Gigantomastia is a rare, debilitating, and disfiguring condition characterized by excessive breast growth of 1 or both breasts, which has adverse physical and psychological effects 1 . The incidence of idiopathic gigantomastia is unknown, while the incidence of gestational gigantomastia is 1:28 000 to 1:100 000 6 . The risk factors are not fully defined, but it has been reported to be more common in multiparous and Caucasian women than in African American women (9:4) 7 …”

Gestational Gigantomastia: Case Report and Review of Treatment Options

“…Histological changes in these samples often include dilated dermal lymphatics, chronic inflammation, and lymphangiectasia, compatible with sequelae of massive parenchymal enlargement. Pathologic characterization of parenchymal sampling is limited, though pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) and lymphangiectasia have been reported [24]. Lactational change is an expected finding in the given physiologic setting.…”

Lessons learned in severe axillary gestational gigantomastia

“…As a result of the excessive weight, patients experience psychosocial stress and physical debilitation from pain, skin breakdown, and immobility. Severe complications have been reported, including tissue necrosis, sepsis, deep vein thrombosis, and hemorrhage from enlarged venous sinuses 2,4–6 . Treatment—which ranges from expectant management to surgical intervention—is individualized for each patient and aims to slow the progression of tissue hypertrophy while relieving symptoms 7 …”