General Surgery (Breast) Flashcards
What is Mastitis?
Inflammation of breast tissue
What are the two types of Mastitis
Lactational Mastitis - usually presents during the first 3 months of breast feeding or during weaning
Non Lactational Mastitis - occurring in Women with other conditions such as duct ectasia
What is the link between Tobacco and Breast disease?
Tobacco causes damage to sub-areolar duct walls predisposing to bacterial infection
Give three clinical features of Mastitis
Tenderness
Swelling
Erythema
How is Mastitis managed?
Simple Analgesia
Antibiotics
If breast feeding - encouraged to continue
Name a complication of Mastitis
Breast Abscess
What is a Breast Abscess?
Collection of pus within the breast lined with granulation tissue
Presents with systemic symptoms of fever and lethargy
What are Breast Cysts?
Epithelial lined fluid filled cavities, formed when lobules become distended due to blockage
Normally affects peri-menopausal age group
Can be single/multiple distinct smooth masses
Describe two investigations for Breast Cysts
Mammography (classic halo shape) Needle Aspiration (sent for cytology)
How are Breast Cysts managed?
Generally self resolving
Can be aspirated for aesthetic reasons
Advise patient to monitor as they do have a higher risk of Breast Cancer
What is Mammary Duct Ectasia?
Dilation and shortening of lactiferous ducts common in the peri-menopausal age group
Give 3 clinical features of Mammary Duct Ectasia
- Green/Yellow nipple discharge
- Palpable Mass
- Retracted Nipple
Describe two investigations for Mammary Duct Ectasia
Mammography (dilated calcified ducts with no other features of malignancy)
Biopsy (multiple plasma cells)
How would you manage Mammary Duct Ectasia?
Conservative unless persistent discharge (duct excision)
What is Fat Necrosis of the breast?
Acute inflammatory response in the breast leading to ischaemic necrosis of fat lobules
Name 3 causes of Fat Necrosis
Trauma
Previous Surgery
Previous Radiation
How does Fat Necrosis present?
Normally presents asymptomatically/as a lump
Less commonly can present with fluid discharge/skin dimpling/pain/nipple inversion