Collection of pus within the breast lined with granulation tissue

Aetiology

• Most commonly develops from acute mastitis

Clinical features

• Presents as a flocculent sometimes-bulging mass usually located in the central area of the mastitis
• Associated systemic symptoms include fever and lethargy

Investigations

• Ultrasound: can confirm diagnosis if there is any doubt regarding the diagnosis
• Aspiration: with a number 18-gauge needle using local anesthesia is diagnostic and can be therapeutic if all the pus is aspirated
  • Aspiration sent for microbiological analysis

Management

• Antibiotics should be continued until all evidence of inflammation (cellulitis) has cleared
• Aspiration may have to be repeated every 3 days
• If the repeated aspirations are not effective in clearing the abscess, open surgical dependent drainage under general anaesthesia is required