Acute mastitis and breast abscesses among lactating women: occurrence and risk factors

ABSTRACT

This is a prospective study designed to assess the contributing factors for puerperal breast abscesses and mastitis as well as to evaluate treatment options. The study was conducted over a 2-year period, during which 176 nursing women with breast infection were followed. Of these, 140 had mast itis [79.6%] and 36 had breast abscesses [20.4%]. Ultrasono graphic examination was performed in selected cases. Patient age, parity, localization of infection, cracked nipples, duration of lactation, duration of symptoms, treatment options and healing time were all recorded. All patients with mastitis were treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Abscesses were treated by incision and drainage. No significant difference was observed between the mastitis and the abscesses groups in relation to age, parity, localization of breast infection, cracked nipples or lactation time. Duration of symptoms and healing were longer in cases of abscesses. However, multivari ate analysis showed that the duration of symptoms was the only independent variable for abscess development. Delayed treatment of mastitis can lead to abscess formation and it can be prevented by early antibiotic therapy. Ultrasonography was observed to be helpful in detecting abscess formation in selected cases