Nipple pain, mastalgia and candidiasis in the lactating breast

Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 1991 Nov;31(4):378-80. doi: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.1991.tb02829.x.

Abstract

During lactation, persistently sore nipples or shooting breast pain in the absence of local or systemic signs may be symptoms of C. albicans infection of the nipples and/or breast ducts. The nipple may be erythematous or fissured, but the appearance does not resemble oral or vaginal candidiasis. Case 1 is a woman with sore nipples following a course of antibiotics. Case 2 is a woman with severe shooting breast pain which was worsened by antibiotic treatment. Treatment included topical and oral antifungal treatment for the mother in conjunction with an 'anti-candida' diet. The infant's mouth was also treated to prevent reinfection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Diseases / diagnosis
  • Breast Diseases / microbiology
  • Breast Diseases / therapy
  • Breast Feeding*
  • Candidiasis / complications
  • Candidiasis / diagnosis*
  • Candidiasis / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lactation
  • Nipples*
  • Pain / etiology

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents