Mastitis

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue, usually by infection by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus in a lactating woman. The germ usually enters through a break in the surface of the skin around the nipple or the nipple itself. Initially there is redness and tenderness over a quadrant of the breast representing early cellulitis: over a period of 24 hours this may progress to form an abscess. The cellulitis can be treated using antibiotics and encouraging breast-feeding to continue. If an abscess forms the help of a surgeon may be required.
 

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