Milk fistula

Abstract

A milk fistula is a tract between the skin and a lactiferous duct associated with surgical intervention for a breast abscess while a woman is lactating, resulting in milk draining through the skin of the breast. Development of a milk fistula is rare in the setting of aspiration or mini-incision and drainage and occurs more commonly in the setting of extensive surgical drainage with placement of large drains (which is rarely necessary). A milk fistula usually resolves spontaneously; if persistent, it usually resolves with cessation of lactation. The baby can be weaned from the involved breast and continue to nurse from the other breast; this requires assistance from a lactation specialist in most cases.