Mastitis and breast abscess associated with nipple piercings: a case study

This article presents a composite case study of a 27-year-old woman who attended a first contact service with right breast pain and systemic symptoms six months after undergoing a nipple piercing. She was subsequently diagnosed with non-lactational mastitis and treated successfully with antibiotics. The article reviews the anatomy of the female breast, the presentation and management of mastitis and breast abscess, and the pathogens associated with nipple piercing, including Staphylococcus aureus and non-tuberculous mycobacteria. It highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by the similarity of breast changes associated with mastitis, breast abscess and other potentially more serious conditions, including breast cancer. The article also identifies limitations in the evidence base regarding complications associated with nipple piercing and notes the lack of robust evidence informing the management of non-lactational mastitis. Further research is required to support evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.