From the Research
For a breast abscess, the recommended antibiotics are ciprofloxacin with clindamycin as initial empirical therapy, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 1. This recommendation is based on the fact that MRSA is the most common organism seen in breast abscesses, and the first line treatment of antibiotics is often resistant. The study found that MRSA was the predominant organism in breast abscesses, and that the first line prescribed empirical antibiotics, such as amoxicillin clavulanate, were mostly resistant 1. Other studies have also shown that breast infections are frequently polymicrobial, with a wide variety of organisms isolated, suggesting the need for broad spectrum coverage until culture results become available 2. However, the study by 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence, and its recommendation for ciprofloxacin with clindamycin as initial empirical therapy should be prioritized. It is also important to note that treatment should be combined with incision and drainage of the abscess, which is essential for proper healing, and that warm compresses and pain management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen are also important supportive measures. The choice of antibiotic may need adjustment based on culture results, and patients should complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve quickly to prevent recurrence or antibiotic resistance.