Clinical outcomes and recurrence predictors in breast abscess surgical management: A retrospective analysis

Breast abscesses are common in surgical practice, with significant recurrence rates. Identifying factors associated with recurrence is crucial for guiding management and improving outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, pathological, radiological, and laboratory factors associated with recurrence in patients who underwent surgical treatment for breast abscesses. This retrospective observational study included female patients who were managed surgically for breast abscesses between January 2018 and June 2024. The data included demographic, surgical, pathological, and laboratory parameters. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the recurrence and non-recurrence groups and identify significant predictors of recurrence. Logistic regression analysis was applied to determine independent predictors of recurrence. A total of 55 patients who underwent surgical treatment for breast abscesses were included in the study. Recurrence was observed in 30.9% of the patients (n = 17). In intergroup comparisons, lower hemoglobin levels were associated with recurrence (mean: 12.1 vs 13.09 g/dL; P = .057; mean difference: -0.994; 95% CI: -2.018 to 0.030), and recurrence was more frequent among Syrian-immigrant patients (17.6% vs 2.6%; χ2 = 3.927; P = .048). Logistic regression identified granulomatous mastitis as a significant predictor, increasing the risk of recurrence (OR: 62.7; 95% CI: 1.98-1981.4; P = .031). This study highlights the high recurrence rate of surgically treated breast abscesses and the heterogeneity of the condition, which includes diverse etiologies. Preoperative patient counseling regarding recurrence risk is essential to strengthen the patient-physician relationship.