Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to review our experience in treatment of breast abscess by using needle aspiration under antibiotic cover.
Study Design: It was a descriptive, case series study.
Duration & Setting: Study was conducted from January 2012 to December 2012 at department of surgery, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur.
Patients & Methods: A total of 64 female patients of different age groups having breast abscess up to 5 cm in size were included in the study. Aspiration was done by using 14 G needle in OPD. Patients were followed up after 01 week & further aspirations were performed if deemed necessary.
Results: Mean age remained 23 years, 89% of the patients were lactating & only 11% non-lactating. Commonest presenting symptom was painful swelling (100%) followed by fever (18%). 25% were cured with single aspiration, 51.56% required a second aspiration & 18.75% got cure with multiple aspirations (p value= 0.001). Incision & drainage was done in 04.68% cases who failed to respond to multiple aspirations.
Conclusion: Needle aspiration under antibiotic cover is an effective way of treating smaller breast abscesses with less discomfort & low morbidity.

Key words: Breast Abscess, Needle Aspiration, Antibiotics