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Lactational mastitis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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EasyOB/GYN (prenatal care, contraception, screening)Lactational mastitisUSMLE Step 3

A 29-year-old woman who is breastfeeding has unilateral breast pain, erythema, fever, and myalgias. There is no fluctuance. She wants to continue breastfeeding. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: C — Continue breastfeeding and start anti-staphylococcal antibiotics

Lactational mastitis is treated with continued milk removal and antibiotics targeting Staphylococcus aureus when bacterial infection is suspected.

Reference: Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Mastitis Protocol