Unilateral Breast Abscess Caused by Escherichia coli in an 18-Year-Old Non-lactating Female: A Case Report

Breast abscesses are commonly encountered in lactating women, typically due to <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>. By contrast, breast abscess in non-lactating women is rare and tends to be a diagnostic challenge. Uncommon pathogens such as <i>Salmonella</i> or <i>Escherichia coli</i> (<i>E. coli</i>) rarely present in the literature as causes of breast abscess. This report highlights the case of an 18-year-old previously healthy female and non-lactating woman who presented with a painful, red, and swollen right breast. Physical examination and ultrasound investigations confirmed the presence of a breast abscess. Surgical drainage and pus culture were done, and <i>E. coli</i> was confirmed as the causative organism. She was successfully treated and discharged with orders to return for dressing changes. This case emphasizes the importance of considering atypical organisms like <i>E. coli</i> in non-lactational breast abscesses and tailoring antibiotic therapy based on culture results. Further research is warranted to better understand the underlying pathophysiology and to compare the outcomes of surgical drainage versus antibiotic therapy alone in such uncommon presentations.