Recurrent breast abscess leading to an incidental diagnosis of tuberculous mastitis: a case report.
Shital Shrikant Ghogale, Ketaki Niranjan Pathak
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 26-year-old Indian woman presented with a recurrent right breast abscess characterized by a tender, fluctuant swelling. Initial management included incision and drainage. Subsequent microbiological evaluation revealed acid-fast bacilli, leading to the diagnosis of tuberculous mastitis. The patient was started on antitubercular therapy, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis in similar cases.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider tuberculous mastitis in cases of recurrent breast abscesses, especially in endemic regions, and perform routine AFB staining and molecular testing.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of early microbiological evaluation to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure timely treatment, reducing the risk of repeated interventions.