Breast Abscess & Mastitis
50 single best answer questions — Domain 6: Conditions, Body system: Breast
Based on the GMC Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) content map — applicable from September 2026
,BREAST Question 1 of 50
Breast Abscess & Mastitis Mastitis
A 28-year-old woman who is 3 weeks postpartum and exclusively breastfeeding presents with a painful, red, warm wedge-shaped area on
her left breast, associated with fever and flu-like symptoms. There is no fluctuant mass on examination. What is the most likely causative
organism?
A Staphylococcus aureus
B Streptococcus agalactiae
C Escherichia coli
D Candida albicans
E Staphylococcus epidermidis
Select the single best answer.
,BREAST Question 1 of 50 — Answer
Breast Abscess & Mastitis Mastitis
A 28-year-old woman who is 3 weeks postpartum and exclusively breastfeeding presents with a painful, red, warm wedge-shaped area on her left breast, associated with
fever and flu-like symptoms. There is no fluctuant mass on examination. What is the most likely causative organism?
A Staphylococcus aureus ✓ Correct
B Streptococcus agalactiae
C Escherichia coli
D Candida albicans
E Staphylococcus epidermidis
EXPLANATION
Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of lactational mastitis, typically entering via a cracked nipple.
, BREAST Question 2 of 50
Breast Abscess & Mastitis Mastitis
Which clinical feature best distinguishes simple breast engorgement from mastitis in a breastfeeding woman?
A Bilateral breast fullness without fever
B Unilateral erythema with systemic fever and malaise
C Nipple pain during latching
D Milk leakage between feeds
E Breast tenderness relieved by feeding
Select the single best answer.