Lactational mastitis and breast abscess - diagnosis and management in general practice.

Abstract

Lactational mastitis is usually bacterial in aetiology and can generally be effectively managed with oral antibiotics. Infections that do not improve rapidly require further investigation for breast abscess and nonlactational causes of inflammation, including the rare cause of inflammatory breast cancer. In addition to antibiotics, management of lactational breast infections include symptomatic treatment, assessment of the infant's attachment to the breast, and reassurance, emotional support, education and support for ongoing breastfeeding.