Topic 2: Candidiasis

Candida is a fungal yeast present in the normal microbial flora of the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, vagina, and skin, of which Candida albicans is the most abundant species.5 Excess proliferation of this yeast can lead to an invasive infection known as candidiasis (kan·duh·dai·uh·suhs) or thrush.5 Candidiasis and other fungal infections of the mammary tissue are […]

Topic 1: Subacute Mastitis

Subacute mastitis is a chronic microbiome imbalance in the breast tissue associated with an overgrowth of coagulase-negative staphylococci or viridans streptococci bacteria.11 This chronic infection results in the development of thick biofilms inside the milk ducts, thus causing inflammation and narrowing.11,90 Signs and symptoms tend to be milder than those of acute mastitis.  Signs and […]

Quiz

Question 1 Mark the following statements as either true or false. << Back Next >>

Topic 2: Breast Abscess

A breast abscess is a localized collection of pus trapped in the breast tissue, occurring in approximately 3-11% of bacterial mastitis cases.5,11 It may occur when treatment for mastitis is delayed, incorrect, inadequate, or not completed.5 An abscess can develop at the same time as mastitis or weeks after it has been treated.5 The signs […]

Topic 1: Inflammatory & Bacterial Mastitis

Inflammatory mastitis is a non-infective condition that results from persistent or increased inflammation in the glandular tissue and is often associated with ductal narrowing and hyperlactation. Signs and symptoms may include:4,11 Erythema, edema, induration, and tenderness in a wedge-shaped area, often starting within 2cm of the areola Deep breast pain Systemic symptoms such as malaise, […]

Quiz

Question 1 Ductal narrowing is associated with: Check all that apply Question 2 Mark the following statements about ductal narrowing as either true or false. << Back Next >>

Quiz

Question 1 What are the main causes of postpartum breast engorgement? Check all that apply Question 2 Manual lymphatic drainage may help to move the congested lymph fluid towards the lymph vessels. Match each step with the correct visual. << Back Next >>

Case Study 8

Background: Luisa is at home with her infant Gabriel and partner José, postpartum day 4. She is 39 years old and had a spontaneous vaginal delivery. Luisa previously breastfed her daughter for 6 months before returning to work, and she tells you she plans to do the same for Gabriel. Luisa says her breasts have […]

Quiz

Question 1 Mark the following statements as either true or false. Question 2 Kai has just given birth and has a history of depression and anorexia nervosa. Kai is unsure if they want to exclusively breastfeed. What are some things you keep in mind as you support Kai? Check all that apply << Back Next […]

Case Study 7

Background: Jackie gave birth 3 days ago to her son Caleb via emergency Caesarean birth for placental abruption. This is Jackie and her partner Jordan’s second baby. Jackie received general anesthesia and required 2 units of blood in the OR. Caleb was admitted to NICU immediately after birth for low oxygen saturation but stabilized and […]