Etymed
mastitis
Definition
inflammation of breast tissue, typically occurring in lactating women
Clinical context
A 28-year-old nursing mother presents with fever, chills, and redness of the left breast that has been tender and warm to touch for 2 days. She reports difficulty with breastfeeding on the affected side. On examination, there is a warm, erythematous area of the breast with induration. The most likely diagnosis is acute mastitis.
Mnemonic
Mastitis in nursing mothers - 'MAMA' stands for: Milk stasis, Acute infection, Tissue inflammation, and Antibiotic treatment needed