What condition is characterized as a regional infection of the breast, often in lactating women?

Mastitis is indeed characterized as a regional infection of the breast, most commonly occurring in lactating women. This condition typically arises due to a blockage in the milk ducts, which can lead to the accumulation of milk and subsequent infection. The symptoms often include breast tenderness, redness, swelling, and sometimes systemic signs like fever.

During lactation, the risk of developing mastitis increases due to factors such as milk stasis, cracked nipples, and bacteria entering through the nipple. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications, and management often includes antibiotic therapy and measures to promote milk drainage.

Other conditions like breast cysts and fibroadenomas do not involve infection. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs, and fibroadenomas are benign tumors made of glandular and connective tissue, both of which can present with lumps but are not infectious in nature. A galactocele is a milk-filled cyst that can occur during lactation but is also not an infectious condition like mastitis. Overall, mastitis stands out due to its inflammatory nature and the specific clinical context within lactating women.