Jane
Message 1 of 1
I have had cellulitis of the breast since lumpectomy and node surgery in 1997. The wound would not heal after the axial node dissection; MD wanted me to start Radiation treatment, so the wound was surgically closed after a month of waiting (and lots of drainage). For several years every 4-6 weeks I experienced Sepsis, or blood poisoning, with high fever, chills, reddening/hot skin, dizziness, etc. and was hospitalized for IV antibiotics 10-12 times each year. The docs kept trying different oral meds, and finally last year (2000) we found a combination that sort of works. If I get slightly off of the regimen of antibiotics, within a day or two I become symptomatic. Finally a blood culture showed that the bacteria is Group B Strep, which apparently is very rare, particularly in the breast tissue. There is some research going on to develop a vaccine for pregnant Moms who can contract Group B Strep just before giving birth. My docs consulted the researchers and they are stumped about my situation. They have heard of a handful of others with this chronic situation. I am very interested to hear if others have experienced this. Thanks and be well. Jane