ABSTRACT
Dermatoses of the breast during lactation can be difficult to diagnose because of their overlapping clinical appearances. It is important to properly diagnose and treat nipple dermatitis since it can be a significant source of pain when nursing. Poorly controlled nipple pain in nursing mothers is one of the primary reasons for breastfeeding to be discontinued earlier than is recommended. Therefore, it is relevant for practicing dermatologists to be aware of certain facts in a patient's history, specific physical exam findings, and the most appropriate laboratory tests used to diagnose these conditions. In addition, the therapeutic approach should be effective and safe for the mother and infant. This review article provides dermatologists with a detailed discussion on the clinical features and management of various breast dermatoses seen in lactation, including atopic dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, psoriasis, bacterial infections, yeast infections and herpes simplex virus infections.
Subject(s)
Breast Diseases/therapy , Lactation , Skin Diseases/therapy , Dermatitis, Allergic Contact/therapy , Dermatitis, Atopic/therapy , Eczema/therapy , Female , Humans , Nipples , Pregnancy , Psoriasis/therapy , Raynaud Disease/therapyABSTRACT
Breastfeeding is thought to be the most optimal form of infant nutrition. Nursing mothers are generally advised to continue breastfeeding until the infant is two years of age or beyond. Unfortunately, however, a majority of nursing mothers will discontinue breastfeeding much earlier than recommended. The most common reason for early discontinuation of breastfeeding is nipple pain. It is, therefore, essential that dermatologists know how to appropriately diagnose and effectively treat nipple pain associated with nipple dermatitis among nursing mothers. This review article provides a detailed discussion on the clinical features and management of various causes of nipple dermatitis during lactation, including problems with infant latch-on, congenital oral anomalies, plugged lactiferous ducts, atopic dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, yeast infections, bacterial infections, herpes simplex virus, and Raynaud's phenomenon of the nipple.
