Breast abscess in two Nepalese newborns: An unusual series

ABSTRACT:

Background

Breast abscess in newborns is an exceedingly rare pyogenic inflammation that usually starts as mastitis neonatorum. Although mastitis can respond to antibiotic therapy in the initial stages, once advanced into a purulent collection, decompression may be indicated either in the form of needle aspiration or even surgical drainage. We present two newborns with breast abscesses managed surgically with successful outcomes.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 13-day-old boy presented with swelling and redness over the left breast for a day. Local examination revealed a warm, indurated swelling with redness and fluctuation. Needle aspiration confirmed pus. Intravenous (IV) antibiotics were started right away followed by pus drainage, the culture of which yielded Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Regular wound care subsequently resulted in complete recovery. Case 2: A 15-day-old boy presented with swelling, redness and milky discharge from the right breast for two days. The swelling was erythematous, tender and indurated but not cystic or fluctuant. Ultrasonogram was suggestive of an abscess. Once again, IV antibiotics were administered followed by drainage. Pus yielded MSSA. Following regular wound dressings, satisfactory healing was achieved.

Conclusion

Neonatal mastitis and breast abscess are uncommon. Early recognition followed by appropriate antibiotic therapy and drainage of the abscess is the mainstay of treatment. Highlights • Neonatal mastitis and breast abscess are fairly uncommon.• Breast abscess, an exceedingly rare pyogenic inflammation, starts as mastitis neonatorum.• Clinical improvement is aided by adequate antibiotic coverage and needle aspiration or surgical drainage of pus.• Prompt recognition and management are paramount to avoid complications.• Newborns with breast abscesses are managed surgically with successful outcomes.

SUBMITTER: Shrestha A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9577873 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature