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Delayed breast abscesses after lumpectomy and radiation therapy
R D Keidan1, J P Hoffman, J L Weese
1Department of Surgical Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111.
The American Surgeon
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Delayed breast abscesses can occur after lumpectomy and radiation therapy for breast cancer. Larger lumpectomy cavity size correlated with increased infection risk, suggesting a skin source.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Delayed breast abscesses are an underreported complication following breast cancer treatment.
- Lumpectomy and radiation therapy (RT) are common breast cancer treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of delayed breast abscesses after lumpectomy and RT.
- To identify risk factors associated with delayed breast abscess formation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 112 patients undergoing lumpectomy and RT.
- Analysis of patient data, including surgical factors, chemotherapy, and outcomes.
- Correlation analysis between lumpectomy cavity size and infection incidence.
Main Results:
- A 6% incidence of delayed breast abscesses was observed (median 5 months post-treatment).
- No association found between prophylactic antibiotics, chemotherapy, or surgical approach and abscess risk.
- Abscesses occurred in the first 32 patients; larger lumpectomy cavity size correlated with infection (P=0.0440).
- Staphylococci were the most common pathogens; prior skin-related issues suggested a skin contamination source.
Conclusions:
- Delayed breast abscesses are a significant complication in a subset of patients treated with lumpectomy and RT.
- Expeditious treatment with antibiotics and drainage yields satisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
- Larger lumpectomy cavity size may increase the risk of delayed breast abscesses.