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

## TL;DR

An 18-year-old non-lactating woman developed a breast abscess caused by Escherichia coli, highlighting the need to consider rare pathogens in such cases.

## Contribution

This case report documents a rare instance of non-lactational breast abscess caused by E. coli, emphasizing the importance of tailored antibiotic treatment.

## Key findings

- An 18-year-old non-lactating woman presented with a breast abscess caused by E. coli.
- Surgical drainage and culture confirmed E. coli as the causative organism.
- Successful treatment was achieved with drainage and targeted antibiotic therapy.

## Abstract

Breast abscesses are commonly encountered in lactating women, typically due to Staphylococcus aureus. By contrast, breast abscess in non-lactating women is rare and tends to be a diagnostic challenge. Uncommon pathogens such as Salmonella or Escherichia coli (E. coli) 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 E. coli 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 E. coli 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.