Evaluation of Neonatal Cases with Mastitis and Breast Abscess

Objective: Rare mastitis and breast abscess in newborns are caused by manual interventions such as massage to breast tissue of babies with breast hypertrophy, or rarely with hematogenous spread. While mastitis can be corrected with antibiotic therapy, surgical drainage to the abscess may be required. In our study, we aim to examine patients diagnosed with neonatal mastitis or breast abscess. Material and Method: The diagnoses of the patients in the neonatal unit between 2012 and 2018 were examined. Patients diagnosed with mastitis or breast abscess were detected. Clinical findings, application complaints, complete blood count (CBC), C - reactive protein (CRP) blood culture, wound culture results, treatment and hospitalization times were recorded. The percentage of neonatal mastitis was calculated. Results: From the 20042 birth and 2252 hospitalized patients in the neonatal unit, only 6 had a diagnosis of mastitis and breast abscess. Accordingly, the frequency of mastitis/breast abscess in our province is 0.03%; boy/girl ratio 1/2 and breast abscess/mastitis ratio is 50%. In one of the two babies with breast abscess, the white blood count (WBC) value was 19500 / mm3, increased CRP and growth in the blood culture was detected, in the other baby, only increased CRP and growth in the drainage culture was detected. Half of the patients were given ampicillin and gentamicin, and it was observed that the babies recovered without complications. Conclusion: Mastitis and breast abscess are rare and serious health problems that can be detrimental if left untreated