Nonpuerperal breast infection
C M Casas1, M Pérez, J C Alados
1Microbiology Service Virgen de las Nieves Hospital, Granada, Spain.
Objective:
We undertook a microbiological study of purulent specimens from women with symptomatic breast abscesses.
Methods:
Fifty-one purulent samples were collected in 2 periods (December 1991-April 1992 and January 1994-June 1994) from nonpuerperal breast abscesses in 44 patients attending our hospital.
Results:
One of the most frequently isolated microorganisms was Proteus mirabilis (9 patients, 20.4%), present as a pure culture in all but 1 specimen (isolated together with Peptostreptococcus spp.). Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 10 specimens, 6 of which were post-tumorectomy abscesses. Polymicrobial anaerobic flora were isolated in 11 specimens (21.5%); Staphylococcus epidermidis in 4 (8%); and Streptococcus milleri,Alcaligenes sp., and mixed aerobic-anaerobic flora in 1 specimen each. The 7 remaining samples (13.7%) were negative bacteriological cultures.
Conclusions:
We draw attention to the frequent isolation of P. mirabilis in recurrent and torpid breast abscesses in 4 women in whom surgery was necessary in addition to antibiotic treatment.
Insights
Proteus mirabilis is frequently found in persistent breast abscesses, often requiring surgery and antibiotics. This microbiological study highlights its significance in nonpuerperal breast infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Infections
Background:
- Breast abscesses are common, particularly in women.
- Nonpuerperal breast abscesses can be challenging to treat.
- Microbiological analysis is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a microbiological investigation of purulent samples from women with symptomatic breast abscesses.
- To identify the common microorganisms involved in nonpuerperal breast abscesses.
- To assess the role of specific bacteria, such as Proteus mirabilis, in recurrent or difficult-to-treat cases.
Main Methods:
- Collection of 51 purulent samples from 44 patients with nonpuerperal breast abscesses over two distinct periods.
- Microbiological culture and identification of isolated microorganisms.
- Analysis of bacterial flora, including aerobic, anaerobic, and polymicrobial infections.
Main Results:
- Proteus mirabilis was a frequent isolate (20.4%), often in pure culture.
- Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 10 specimens, with 6 associated with post-tumorectomy abscesses.
- Polymicrobial anaerobic flora were found in 21.5% of samples; other bacteria and negative cultures were also noted.
Conclusions:
- Proteus mirabilis is frequently isolated in recurrent and torpid breast abscesses.
- Four patients with P. mirabilis infections required surgery in addition to antibiotic therapy.
- The study emphasizes the importance of microbiological identification for managing complex breast abscesses.
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