What is the inflammation of the Breast called?

Appeared in: Uttarakhand CHO - 2021

Explanation

Mastitis is the correct medical term for inflammation of the breast tissue.
The prefix 'mast-' refers to the breast, and the suffix '-itis' denotes inflammation.
This condition is most common during lactation (breastfeeding) but can occur at other times.
Symptoms include localized pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often accompanied by fever and malaise.

Option B: Gastritis refers to the inflammation of the lining of the stomach, not the breast.
Option C: Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin, not specifically the breast tissue.
Option D: Osteomyelitis is an infection and inflammation of the bone and bone marrow, which is unrelated to breast tissue.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Medical terminology for inflammatory conditions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating new mothers about preventing mastitis through proper breastfeeding techniques, such as ensuring a good latch and frequent, complete emptying of the breasts.
Prompt assessment and recognition of mastitis symptoms (fever, localized breast pain, redness) are vital for early intervention to prevent complications like a breast abscess, which may require surgical drainage.
Patient education should include comfort measures like warm compresses before feeding, cold compresses after feeding, adequate rest, and hydration. It's also important to reassure the mother that it is safe and recommended to continue breastfeeding from the affected breast.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of medical terminology.
Break down the terms into their root components. The suffix '-itis' universally means 'inflammation'.
Analyze the prefixes: 'mast-' relates to the breast, 'gastr-' to the stomach, 'derma-' to the skin, and 'osteo-' to bone.
Match the prefix for 'breast' ('mast-') with the suffix for 'inflammation' ('-itis').
This leads directly to 'Mastitis' as the correct answer for inflammation of the breast.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed pp. 1039-1041, 1040-1042

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 53-66

Practise the full Uttarakhand CHO - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.