Infections of the Mammary Ducts in the Breastfeeding Mother

Infections of the mammary ducts in lactating women are frequently unrecognized and undiagnosed, partially because they have only been recognized in the literature since the early 1990s. In addition, the terminology used to refer to this condition is varied and includes ductal infections, mammary candidosis or candidiasis, ductal candidiasis, and deep pain syndrome. This article documents 3 mothers' cases. The first is representative of a typical presentation of a candidal infection after antibiotic therapy. The second case reveals an infection with Staphylococcus aureus resistant to multiple oral antibiotics. The third case documents a new presentation and interesting mixed microbial growth.