A Case of Abscess Formation after Radiofrequency Ablation for Early Breast Cancer

Breast-conserving surgery with whole-breast irradiation is the standard local treatment for early-stage breast cancer. Recently, less invasive approaches have gained attention with advances in imaging and ablative technologies. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) induces thermal coagulative necrosis and has been explored as a potential alternative for selected small breast tumors, with favorable oncological and cosmetic outcomes reported. However, data regarding infectious complications remain limited. Because RFA creates devitalized tissue, secondary infection and abscess formation may occur. We report a rare case of delayed abscess formation after breast RFA that required surgical management.

A 58-year-old woman with cT1bN0M0 invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast underwent RFA combined with sentinel lymph node biopsy. Adjuvant endocrine therapy and whole-breast irradiation were subsequently administered. Four months after RFA, MRI and vacuum-assisted biopsy confirmed complete tumor ablation. Six months after the procedure, the patient developed progressive swelling, erythema, and tenderness of the left breast. Despite systemic antibiotic therapy, symptoms persisted. Contrast-enhanced CT and ultrasonography revealed fluid accumulation within the ablation zone, consistent with abscess formation. Surgical incision and drainage with debridement were performed. The patient recovered gradually, and complete wound healing was achieved 2 months after the intervention.

We report a rare case of delayed abscess formation following breast RFA that required surgical management. As RFA becomes more widely implemented, awareness of potential late infectious complications and prompt intervention are essential for ensuring patient safety.