Gas gangrene of the breast: management of a potential life-threatening infection

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2009 Jan;279(1):79-81. doi: 10.1007/s00404-008-0642-3. Epub 2008 Apr 10.

Abstract

Introduction: Gas gangrene of the breast is a rare infection and potentially mortal.

Case report: We report a case of a fast extension of a painful right breast erythema whose starting point was a right parasternal cutaneous abscess. A diagnosis of gas gangrene of the right breast was made. A right mammectomy was carried out in Emergency and an antibiotherapy adapted to the germs was given.

Conclusion: Mixed anaerobic and aerobic florae are often responsible for the infection. Its medico-surgical management is an emergency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / microbiology
  • Abscess / therapy
  • Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Diseases / microbiology
  • Breast Diseases / therapy*
  • Female
  • Gas Gangrene / microbiology
  • Gas Gangrene / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Mastectomy
  • Metronidazole / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Metronidazole
  • Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination