Breast Infection: A Review of Diagnosis and Management Practices

Abstract

Mastitis is a common condition that predominates during the puerperium. Breast abscesses are less common, however when they do develop, delaysin specialist referral may occur due to lack of clear protocols. In secondary care abscesses can be diagnosed by ultrasound scan and in the past themanagement has been dependent on the receiving surgeon. Management options include aspiration under local anesthetic or more invasive incisionand drainage (I&D). Over recent years the availability of bedside/clinic based ultrasound scan has made diagnosis easier and minimally invasiveprocedures have become the cornerstone of breast abscess management. We review the diagnosis and management of breast infection in the primaryand secondary care setting, highlighting the importance of early referral for severe infection/breast abscesses. As a clear guideline on the management of breast infection is lacking, this review provides useful guidance for those who rarely see breast infection to help avoid long-term morbidity.