A 28-year-old lactating woman presents with a 3-day history of fever, pain, and a tender, fluctuant lump in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast. What is the most appropriate management?
- A Stop breastfeeding and start antibiotics
- B Incision and drainage with continued breastfeeding ✓
- C Needle aspiration only without antibiotics
- D Simple mastectomy
Correct answer: B. Incision and drainage with continued breastfeeding
Explanation
Lactational breast abscess is managed by incision and drainage along with antibiotics. Breastfeeding should be continued from the affected breast to prevent milk stasis. Stopping breastfeeding worsens the condition. Needle aspiration alone may suffice for small abscesses, but incision and drainage is standard for larger fluctuant abscesses.
Reference: Bailey and Love Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.