Prototheca mastitis

Prototheca is a yeast-like organism found in the environment. Prototheca mastitis can be difficult to distinguish from other causes of breast inflammation because pain, redness, warmth, swelling and a tender area can overlap with common mastitis symptoms. It is particularly relevant when symptoms persist, recur or do not respond as expected to initial care.

A clinician may examine the breast and review breastfeeding, previous antibiotics, skin damage and immune health. Testing milk or another sample may be needed to identify the organism and guide treatment. A persistent breast lump should not be assumed to be this infection; it needs an examination and, when appropriate, imaging or sampling.

Arrange a medical review if symptoms are not settling or keep returning. Continue feeding or expressing if this is comfortable and your clinician says it is appropriate; abrupt stopping can worsen breast fullness. A lactation consultation can help correct latch, reduce nipple trauma and protect milk removal. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed, and do not share leftover antibiotics or apply irritants to the nipple.

Seek same-day care for fever with worsening breast redness, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, pus, a fluctuant lump or feeling faint and unwell. Get emergency help for confusion, collapse or difficulty breathing. If a lump, nipple change or skin change remains after inflammation improves, arrange follow-up rather than assuming it is infection alone.

Could a sample identify the cause of my persistent symptoms? Is the treatment compatible with breastfeeding? How should I manage milk removal, and when should a remaining lump or redness be checked again?