Breast abscess

Question 1

What is a breast abscess?

Answer 1

A collection of pus within an area of the breast, usually caused by a bacterial infection

Question 2

What are the two types of breast abscess?

Answer 2

Lactational abscess
Non-lactational abscess

Question 3

What are the most common bacterial causes of breast abscesses?

Answer 3

Staphylococcus aureus
Streptococcal species
Enterococcal species
Anaerobic bacteria

Question 4

What is the presentation of a breast abscess?

Answer 4

Nipple changes
Purulent nipple discharge
Localised pain
Tenderness
Warmth
Erythema
Redness
Hardening of the skin
Swelling

Question 5

What is the key feature of a breast abscess that helps differentiate from other lumps?

Answer 5

Fluctulance - being able to move around the fluid within the lump

Question 6

What are the differentials of a breast abscess?

Answer 6

Breast engorgement
Galactocele
Fibrocystic breasts
Breast trauma
Breast cancer
Fibroadenoma

Question 7

What are the risk factors for breast abscess?

Answer 7

Lactation
Poor breastfeeding technique
Nipple injury
Previous mastitis
Nipple piercings
Skin infection
Underlying breast disease
Smoking

Question 8

What investigations are used to diagnose a breast abscess?

Answer 8

Breast ultrasound
Diagnostic needle aspiration

Question 9

What is the management of a breast abscess?

Answer 9

Antibiotics
Incision and drainage or needle aspiration