Immunological Factors and Macronutrient Content in Human Milk From Women With Subclinical Mastitis.

This article focuses on the impact of subclinical mastitis (SCM), an asymptomatic inflammatory condition of lactating mammary glands, on human milk composition and the suitability of such milk for donor use. In a cross-sectional study of 106 milk samples from donors at The Nippon Foundation Human Milk Bank, SCM was identified by a sodium-potassium (Na:K) ratio greater than 0.6. Milk from mothers with SCM showed significantly increased concentrations of lactoferrin and true protein compared to milk from mothers without mastitis, while levels of secretory Immunoglobulin A (sIgA), fat, carbohydrate, and energy did not differ significantly. The findings suggest that despite the inflammatory response indicated by elevated immunological substances, human milk from mothers with SCM remains nutritionally appropriate and safe for use in milk banks, particularly benefiting preterm infants.