Breast Infection (cont.)
Medical Author:
Suzanne R Trupin, MD
Suzanne R Trupin, MDDr. Suzanne Trupin is a Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign. She graduated from Stanford University and completed her medical training at New York Medical in Valhalla, New York. She received her residency training at the University of Southern California Women's Hospital in Los Angeles, California. She is Board-Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. IN THIS ARTICLE
MedicationsFor simple mastitis without an abscess, oral antibiotics are prescribed. Cephalexin (Keflex) and dicloxacillin (Dycill) are two of the most common antibiotics chosen, but a number of others are available. Erythromycin may be used if a woman is allergic to the commonly used antibiotics .The antibiotic prescribed for you will depend on the clinical situation, your doctor's preference, and your medication allergies, if any. This medicine is safe to use while breastfeeding and will not harm the baby. Chronic mastitis in nonbreastfeeding women can be complicated. Recurrent episodes of mastitis are common. Occasionally, this type of infection responds poorly to antibiotics. Therefore, close follow-up with your doctor is mandatory. If the infection worsens in spite of oral antibiotics or if you have a deep abscess requiring surgical treatment, you may be admitted to the hospital for IV antibiotics. Must Read Articles Related to Breast Infection
Breast Lumps and Pain
Breast changes are common. From the time a girl begins to develop breasts and begins menstruating and throughout life, women may experience various kinds of bre...learn more >>
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding or bottle feeding your newborn baby is a personal decision. If you choose to breastfeed, it will be helpful if you are in a supportive environment...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsBreast Infection - CauseThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What was the cause of your breast infection? Breast Infection - SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What were the symptoms of your breast infection and what was the treatment? |
Women's Health
Find out what women really need.
From WebMD
Women's Conditions Resources
- 5 Most Common MS Symptoms
- 7 Tips for Hiding Dandruff and Flakes
- 7 Things You Should Know About Your Vagina
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape
Breast Abscesses and Masses »
Breast masses can be broadly classified as benign or malignant.
Featured Topics
Medical Dictionary
Pill Identifier on RxList
- quick, easy,
pill identification
Find a Local Pharmacy
- including 24 hour, pharmacies


