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Breast Abscess Drainage

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Breast Abscess Drainage

Overview

A breast abscess is a collection (pocket) or accumulation of pus within the breast tissues. It is caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. Pus is a fluid consisting of WBCs (white blood cells) and dead cells that form as a result of an infection. Breast abscess refers to pus build-up within the breast tissues. It can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.  

Read on to explore more about breast abscesses, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Is A Breast Abscess?

A pocket of pus formed within the breast is known as a breast abscess, which commonly occurs when the pus fails to drain from the infection site and instead accumulates in a confined area, causing pain and discomfort.  A breast abscess is commonly seen in lactating women, but it can also develop in non-lactating women and in males as well. A breast abscess is usually accompanied by inflammation and swelling in the surrounding area.

What Are The Causes Of Breast Abscesses?

The main cause of breast abscesses is bacterial infection. Bacteria may enter the breast tissues through a crack and rupture in the nipple or skin of the breast, resulting in an infection. An infection in the breast is known as mastitis. Breast abscesses are typically caused by a bacterial infection that enters the breast tissue through a cracked or sore nipple or a blocked milk duct. The bacteria can multiply and cause an infection, leading to the formation of an abscess. Some common causes of breast abscesses include:

  • Mastitis: Mastitis is an infection that occurs in breast tissue, usually in breastfeeding women. It is often caused by a blocked milk duct, which can lead to an abscess.
  • Cracked or sore nipples: Cracks or sores on the nipples can provide a pathway for bacteria to enter the breast tissue and cause an infection.
  • Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene practices can increase the risk of developing a breast abscess.
  • Weakened immune system: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to developing breast abscesses.
  • Trauma: Trauma to the breast, such as from an injury or surgery, can lead to the development of an abscess.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a breast abscess. 

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Breast Abscess?

You can figure out if you are suffering from a breast abscess by identifying certain signs. The symptoms of a breast abscess may vary depending on the severity of the infection, but some common signs and symptoms include:

  • A swollen and painful lump in the breast: The lump may feel tender or warm to the touch,  and it be accompanied by redness or inflammation in the affected area.
  • Breast pain: A breast abscess can cause pain in the affected breast, which may be more pronounced when the breast is touched or moved.
  • Discharge from the nipple: The abscess may cause the affected breast to produce pus or a thick, yellowish fluid that can drain from the nipple.
  • Fever and chills: A breast abscess can cause a fever and chills, which may indicate a more severe infection.
  • Weakness: In some cases, a breast abscess can cause fatigue and weakness, as the body is fighting off the infection.

How Is Breast Abscess Diagnosed?

Apart from the above-mentioned signs and symptoms, a few diagnostic tests help confirm the presence of a breast abscess. These include:

  • Physical examination 
    • Your healthcare provider will do a physical examination and check your symptoms. Your doctor will review your medical history and will perform a physical examination of your breast to check for lumps or abscesses.
  • Mammogram
    • If you are not breastfeeding, and the doctor suspects some serious infection while examining your symptoms, in that case, the doctor will recommend a mammogram test. Mammograms are a crucial tool for diagnosing breast abscesses and infections, the device uses low-frequency X-rays for both diagnosing and detecting breast infection and cancer as well.
  • Aspiration biopsy 
    • While examining your symptoms if your doctor diagnoses an abnormal mass, he/she might advise an ultrasound and an aspiration biopsy.. During this procedure, a needle is inserted, and fluid from the abscess is removed for microscopic examination to screen for infection.

How Is Breast Abscess Treated?

Treatment for breast abscess depends on the severity of the condition and the quantity of the pus, which includes:

  • Medications
    • Antibiotics help treat bacterial infections, Staphylococcus aureus, is the most frequent form of bacterium that causes breast abscesses.  The infection can be treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics such as penicillin, erythromycin, and cephalosporins.
  • Self-care measures 
    • Applying cold compresses at the targeted area to ease discomfort and pain
    • Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or paracetamol, two typical painkillers, reduces discomfort and fever.
  • Abscess drainage
    • If the abscess is large or causing significant pain, it may need to be drained. A healthcare provider can use a needle or make a small incision to drain the pus from the abscess. This can relieve pain and pressure and promote healing.
  • Surgery 
    • In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the abscess. This is typically only considered if the abscess is large, persistent, or causing significant pain.

How Do You Prevent Breast Abscesses?

A breast abscess can be effectively prevented by following certain preventive measures that include:

  • A Nutritious Diet: A healthy, nutritious, and balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, dairy products, lean meat, and fish will help prevent infections that may lead to breast abscesses.
  • Good Hygiene: Maintaining proper personal hygiene to prevent foreign body invasions that may lead to infections and subsequent abscess formations.
  • Self-care measure: Certain self-care measures will help in preventing any cuts or cracks
    • Prevent your nipples and areolae from cracking or drying out by using moisturizer. 
    • Select proper and comfortable activewear, and make sure your bra or clothing is not too tight.
    • If you are breastfeeding, before breastfeeding, apply a warm, damp flannel to your breasts for 10 to 15 minutes at least three times a day.
    • Be sure that while breastfeeding, your infant is latching on properly.
    • If you feel your breasts are too full, use a pump to express milk or frequently breastfeed to encourage your infant to empty the entire container.

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