Breast Abscess

Collection of pus within the breast lined with granulation tissue

Aetiology

• Most commonly develops from acute mastitis

Clinical presentation

• Presents as a flocculent sometimes-bulging mass usually located in the central area of the mastitis

• Associated systemic symptoms include fever and lethargy

Investigations

• A suspected abscess can be confirmed via an ultrasound scan if there is any doubt regarding the diagnosis

• Aspiration with a number 18-gauge needle using local anesthesia is diagnostic and can be therapeutic if all the pus is aspirated

• Aspiration sent for microbiological analysis

Management

• Antibiotics should be continued until all evidence of inflammation (cellulitis) has cleared

• Aspiration may have to be repeated every 3 days

• If the repeated aspirations are not effective in clearing the abscess, then open surgical dependent drainage under general anesthesia is required