Breast Abscess breast lump diagnosis
A breast abscess is a condition where there is an infected lump in the area just under the skin.
Definition
One type of breast infection that can occur in women is a breast abscess. A breast abscess is a condition where there is an infected lump in the area just under the skin. The infected lump contains pus or pus.
The swelling and pus arise as a result of a local infection, which can be caused by bacterial invasion of that part of the body. Breast abscesses are most common in women between the ages of 18 and 50.
In addition, it can also occur in women who are breastfeeding (more common on the edges of the breast, especially on the top and outside) or who are not breastfeeding (more common in the middle of the breast, under the areola or the dark colored part around the breast). nipple).
Reason
Breast abscess can occur in women who are breastfeeding and women who are not breastfeeding.
In women who are breastfeeding, bacteria can invade the breast through the nipple while breastfeeding, or through a fissure in the nipple or areola (a dark area around the nipple. Blocked milk ducts can also lead to infection of the breast or mastitis, which can develop into an abscess). breasts if they do not get immediate treatment.
In women who are not breastfeeding, a breast abscess can result from an injury to the breast, sore nipple, diabetes or immune weakness, or nipple piercing. Women who have a history of breast implant surgery are also at risk of developing a breast abscess.
Symptom
Signs and symptoms of a breast abscess can include:
- A lump or swelling accompanied by pain in the breast
- Pain in the involved breast
- Redness and warmth in the involved breast
- Fever
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of breast abscess is generally done through a medical interview and physical examination. If a breast abscess is suspected, the doctor may also perform an ultrasound examination of the breast or take pus from the lump to determine the type of infection that occurs.
Handling
Treatment of a breast abscess may involve:
- Use of antibiotics. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics, which are generally needed to treat infections that cause breast abscesses. The type of bacteria that most often causes breast abscess is Staphylococcus aureus.
- Surgical procedure. Pus contained in a breast abscess needs to be drained. Most breast abscesses can be drained using a needle and local anesthetic to anesthetize the skin before the needle is inserted.
Needle drainage can also be performed with the help of ultrasound, to determine the position of the abscess and direct the needle to the right area. Larger abscesses may require surgical incision and drainage.
Prevention
To prevent mastitis and breast abscess while breastfeeding, there are various efforts that can be done. Some of them are:
- Ensure that the attachment of the baby's mouth and breast is correct when feeding.
- Ensure that bras and clothing are not too tight.
- Keep your breasts clean by rinsing them every day with soap and water.
- After feeding, wipe the nipple and areola with a sterile cotton swab dipped in warm or cold water.
- Use the cream prescribed by your doctor on the nipple and areola to prevent sores.