Review of ABM Clinical Protocol #36: The Mastitis Spectrum

Abstract

Recent scientific evidence debunks the concept of milk ducts obstructed by a collection of milk as it is not physiologically or anatomically possible.1 The Mastitis Spectrum is a recently revised guideline which challenges the common belief that ‘blocked ducts’ precede inflammatory mastitis, potentially followed by infective mastitis. The evidence now demonstrates that mastitis encompasses a spectrum of conditions, from mild to severe. Moreover, traditional strategies to augment milk removal to counteract milk stasis and breast massage to relieve ductal obstruction from milk ‘plugs’ lacks physiological validity. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) Medicine Clinical Protocol #36 details management recommendations for all eventualities of The Mastitis Spectrum and will be referred to as the ABM Protocol in this review. The protocols can be found at: https://www.bfmed.org/protocols.