Breast Abscess / Breast Infection

Breast infections can cause painful swelling, redness, and warmth. When infection forms a pocket of pus, it becomes an abscess that may require drainage. Infections can occur during breastfeeding (lactational mastitis/abscess) or outside breastfeeding due to blocked ducts, skin bacteria, or chronic inflammation.

At The Medical Group of New Jersey, we evaluate breast infections promptly and coordinate imaging, antibiotics, and drainage when needed to relieve pain and prevent complications.

Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation

Symptoms may include:

• Localized breast pain, redness, and swelling
• Warmth over the affected area
• Fever or chills
• A tender lump that may feel fluctuant
• Nipple discharge (sometimes)

Your surgeon will assess symptom duration, breastfeeding status, diabetes or immune risk factors, and prior infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis often includes:

• Breast ultrasound to confirm abscess vs. inflammation
• Culture of drained fluid when appropriate
• Further imaging or biopsy if symptoms do not improve as expected (to rule out uncommon underlying causes)

Treatment & Ongoing Management

Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics tailored to suspected bacteria
• Drainage (needle aspiration or procedure-based drainage depending on size and location)
• Supportive measures (warm compresses, pain control, lactation guidance when applicable)
• Surgical evaluation for recurrent or complex abscesses

Follow-Up Care

Patients are usually rechecked to ensure resolution. Recurrent infections may prompt additional workup and prevention planning.