Definition of Breast infection
Breast infection: Infection of breast tissue usually caused by bacteria, most often staph (Staphylococcus aureus), which are found on the skin and enter the breast through a break in the skin or nipple, as during breast-feeding. The infected breast may be swollen, hot, reddened, and painful. There may be low grade fever. Treatment includes warm wet compresses and antibiotics.
The term mastitis is often used as a synonym for breast infection but, strictly speaking, mastitis means inflammation of the breast irrespective of the cause.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=24982
Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012
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