Efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone injection in the treatment of mammillary fistula: a prospective study

Abstract

Recurring mammillary fistula (MF) is often difficult to manage. To evaluate the efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone (ILT) injection versus irrigation with saline solution in the management of MF. A prospective study was conducted including 10 patients with MF. The patients were distributed non-randomly into two groups: saline group (n = 5) and triamcinolone group (n = 5). Ultrasound guidance was used for ILT injection. The injection was repeated in the case of no response or recurrence. No statistically significant differences were observed between the saline and triamcinolone groups for clinical parameters and ultrasonographic characteristics of the MF and for the outcomes of the two methods of treatment. However, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups for recurrence of MF (P < 0.046). Success of the treatment with ILT injection was observed in 90% of the patients (9/10), and a failure in one case (10%) after three ILT injections, who was referred for surgery. ILT injection is an effective, simple, and safe treatment for the management of MF.