mastitis

Also known as Inflammatory breast disease, Inflammatory disease of breast, Inflammatory disorder of breast (disorder), breast inflammation NOS, breast inflammation NOS (disorder), breast inflammation, breastitis, breast infection

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast or udder, usually associated with breastfeeding. Symptoms typically include local pain and redness. There is often an associated fever and general soreness. Onset is typically fairly rapid and usually occurs within the first few months of delivery. Complications can include abscess formation.

Key facts

Medical condition (new).name: Mastitis
Medical condition (new).image: Atlas of clinical surgery; with special reference to diagnosis and treatment for practitioners and students (1908) (14768289625).jpg
Medical condition (new).caption: Colorized photo illustrating mastitis, 1908
Medical condition (new).field: Gynecology
Medical condition (new).synonyms: mammitis; garget
Medical condition (new).symptoms: Localized breast pain and redness, fever
Medical condition (new).complications: Abscess
Medical condition (new).onset: Rapid
Medical condition (new).diagnosis: Based on symptoms
Medical condition (new).differential: Plugged milk duct, breast engorgement, breast cancer (rare)
Medical condition (new).prevention: Frequent breastfeeding with good technique

Article

29 sections

Contents

Types
Pregnancy related
Non-pregnancy related
Signs and symptoms
Breast abscess
Causes
Risk factors
Infection
Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
Breast cancer
Treatment
Lactational mastitis
Self-care
Medical treatments
Ineffective and harmful treatments
Nonpuerperal mastitis
Antibiotics for bacterial mastitis
Breast abscess
Prevention
Prognosis
Epidemiology
Terminology
Etymology and pronunciation
Other animals
See also
References
External links

Risk factors include poor latch, cracked nipples, and weaning. Use of a breast pump has historically been associated with mastitis, but has been determined as an indirect association. The bacteria most commonly involved is Staphylococcus aureus. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms. Ultrasound may be useful for detecting a potential abscess.