Microbiological and Therapeutic Insights into Primary Breast Abscesses: A Retrospective Study

Backgrounds: Breast abscess is a common health issue among women, particularly those who are lactating or of childbearing age. Timely and effective antibiotic therapy along with appropriate surgical intervention is essential for treating bacterial infections associated with breast abscesses. This study aimed to investigate the clinical presentations, common pathogens, and treatment practices (including antibiotic therapy and surgical interventions) of primary breast abscesses in lactating and non-lactating women in a tertiary hospital.
Materials & Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on women diagnosed with primary breast abscesses in a tertiary hospital from January 1, 2019 to January 1, 2023. Patients were identified through the hospital microbiology laboratory database and electronic health records. Data were collected on patient demographics, comorbidities, smoking history, clinical presentations, treatment modalities, pus culture and antibiotic sensitivity reports, and clinical outcomes.
Findings: The study comprised 85 patients. Bacillus species was the most frequently-identified pathogen (35.3%), followed by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (25.9%). Sensitivity reports indicated that these organisms were generally susceptible to co-amoxiclav, flucloxacillin, and ciprofloxacin. These antibiotics were the most commonly-prescribed and effective medications when used in conjunction with ultrasound-guided aspiration (88%), surgical incision and drainage (19%), or both.
Conclusion: Bacillus species emerged as the most common pathogen responsible for primary breast abscesses in this cohort. Although bacterial resistance was not prevalent, understanding the current bacteriological profile of breast abscesses is vital for selecting appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy and developing evidence-based treatment guidelines.