Periareolar abscess in the nonlactating breast.

Periareolar abscesses in nonlactating women are usually accompanied by a sinus tract that communicates with the nipple. This abnormal tract represents the source of the initial invasive infection and, if left unattended, may be the nidus for recurrence. The medical records of 32 patients with periareolar abscess treated at Temple University Hospital from January 1970 through January 1980 were reviewed. Follow-up data were obtained recently for 21 patients, including 1 patient with bilateral disease. Several patients also had an inverted nipple. Nineteen patients denied recurrence after our initial treatment and two required a secondary procedure for cure. Only one patient was dissatisfied with the postoperative appearance of the surgical site. None required partial or simple mastectomy for cure, as reported elsewhere. Excision of the sinus tract and, when present, correction of the inverted nipple as herein described are necessary to prevent reinfection. Simple abscess excision or incision and drainage is usually inadequate therapy.