Definition of Breast infection

Disease Prevention in Women Slideshow

Breast infection: Infection of breast tissue usually caused by bacteria, most often staph (Staphylococcus aureus), which are found on the skin and enter the breast through a break in the skin or nipple, as during breast-feeding. The infected breast may be swollen, hot, reddened, and painful. There may be low grade fever. Treatment includes warm wet compresses and antibiotics.

The term mastitis is often used as a synonym for breast infection but, strictly speaking, mastitis means inflammation of the breast irrespective of the cause.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Breast Biopsy - Learn about the different types of breast biopsy procedures, which are used to remove suspicious breast growth and examined for the presence of cancer.
• Breast Cancer - Get the facts on breast cancer symptoms, signs, stages, types, research, risk factors, diagnosis, prevention information and treatment options: mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.
• Early Cancer Detection And Treatment - Learn about cancer detection - symptoms, exams, diagnosis and treatment for different types of cancer on MedicineNet.com

Read more Breast related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Are Fat Injections Safe for Breasts?