Subareolar breast abscesses: characteristics and results of surgical treatment.

Our objective was to describe the characteristics of subareolar breast abscesses and to analyze the results of surgical treatment in relation to the prevention of recurrences. Almost 70% of patients smoked more than 10 cigarettes a day. The recurrence rate after excision of the lactiferous ducts was 28% and after management without excision of the lactiferous ducts was 79% (p < 0.001). Gram-positive bacteria were isolated more frequently in primary subareolar breast abscesses (not significant). Anaerobic microorganisms were more frequently cultured in recurring subareolar breast abscesses (p = 0.02). Definitive treatment of subareolar breast abscesses should consist of excision of the affected lactiferous ducts.