Breast gangrene in an HIV-positive patient.

Introduction: Breast gangrene has been reported as a complication following puerperal sepsis, breast surgery, nipple piercings, warfarin toxicity, etc. We report a case of primary breast gangrene in an HIV-positive individual which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first of its kind.

Case Report: A 40-year-old previously healthy woman presented with fulminating left breast gangrene. She was detected to be HIV positive. Mastectomy was performed. The detailed management of the condition is discussed.

Conclusion: Severe necrotising infections may be initial manifestations of HIV infection and patients with such infections should be screened for HIV.