Mastitis Flashcards
What is mastitis?
Inflammation of the breast tissue that is typically associated with breastfeeding
What is the epidemiology of mastitis?
10-20% of breastfeeding women will experience mastitis
- Incidence peaks at the second and third weeks of breastfeeding, and is most common in the first 3 months
What is the aetiology of mastitis?
It can be caused by blocked ducts, or by bacteria entering the breast tissue, often through a cracked or sore nipple
What is the most common causative organism in infective causes of mastitis?
Staphylococcus aureus
What is the presentation of mastitis?
Painful, tender, red, hot breast
Systemic symptoms
- Fever
- Malaise
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Unilateral symptoms
What are the differential diagnoses of mastitis?
Plugged duct
Breast abscess
Inflammatory breast cancer
Engorgement
What investigations are used to diagnose mastitis?
Mainly clinical diagnosis
Ultrasonography used to rule out an abscess
Culture of any fluid drained
What is the first line management of mastitis?
Conservative management and analgesia
Warm compresses
Continuation of breastfeeding
What is the second line management of mastitis?
Oral flucloxacillin
