General Information
Classical signs of inflammation (heat, redness, swelling, painful)
Staph most common cause
Inc PMNs (neutrophils) with intraductal and periductal inflammation
Etiology
Due to a fissure in the skin from breastfeeding that allows for infection of underlying breast.
Often due to Staphylococcus aureus or streptococci (Strep often produces diffuse cellulitis)
Clinical Picture
Usually mom comes in a month after starting breastfeeding with an irritated, inflamed breast.
Can form a firm mass in breast (DDx: CANCER!)
Typically unilateral (affecting the side used for breastfeeding)
If untreated with antibiotics, infection can spread or an abscess can form. (see abscess for more details)
Histology
Lots of neutrophils
Abscess formation= organization with fibrous scar formation around area of infection/neutrophils/pus etc
Differential Diagnosis:
RULE OUT INFLAMMATORY CARCINOMA OF THE BREAST!!!
